On June 30, 2026, Morocco's national football team, the Atlas Lions, defeated the Netherlands 2-1 in a group stage match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing their place in the round of 16. The match took place at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA, with goals from Hakim Ziyech (12th minute) and Youssef En-Nesyri (78th minute) for Morocco, while Memphis Depay scored for the Netherlands in the 55th minute.
Following the victory, celebrations erupted across Morocco, particularly in major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech, where fans gathered in public squares waving flags and chanting. Similar scenes were reported in diaspora communities in Europe, including Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam, as well as in Montreal, Canada.
This marks the second consecutive World Cup where Morocco has advanced to the knockout stage, following their historic semifinal run in 2022. The team's performance has been praised by fans and analysts alike, highlighting their defensive solidity and counter-attacking efficiency under coach Walid Regragui.
Morocco will face either Portugal or Argentina in the round of 16, scheduled for July 5, 2026. The team's success has been a source of national pride, with King Mohammed VI sending a congratulatory message to the squad.
