Netherlands 1-1 Morocco (2-3 pens): Oranje curse continues

Football often writes powerful stories. And you would find countless such stories in the match between the Netherlands and Morocco (1-1, 2-3 on penalties). For example? Three great saves by Bart Verbruggen, a goal by Cody Gakpo two days after a family tragedy, the continuation of the Oranje penalty curse, or the fantastic left foot of Moroccan goalkeeper Bounou. Within a few hours, another European favorite was eliminated in the first round of the knockout stage at the World Cup; last year's Africa Cup of Nations winner will instead play Canada in the quarterfinals.

The first half was quite balanced. The Netherlands had more possession, but Morocco created danger with effective counterattacks. Neither team managed a clear chance in the first half, and it ended 0-0. In the second half, the Netherlands increased the pressure, but the Moroccan defense remained resilient. The match went into extra time.

In the first half of extra time, the Netherlands took the lead through Cody Gakpo. Gakpo scored his goal two days after a family tragedy, an emotional moment. However, Morocco did not give up and earned a penalty in the second half of extra time, equalizing. The match went to penalties.

In the penalty shootout, Moroccan goalkeeper Bounou saved two Dutch penalties, leading his team to victory. The Netherlands once again suffered the pain of elimination on penalties. This marked another chapter in the Netherlands' penalty curse at World Cups.

Morocco advanced to the quarterfinals, continuing their surprise run in the tournament. The team has been notable for their defensive discipline and the performance of goalkeeper Bounou. The Netherlands, meanwhile, exit the tournament, hoping that their young talents will achieve greater success in the future.