Dutch streets see mixed reactions after Morocco’s dramatic World Cup win
Morocco advances after dramatic penalty shootout
Morocco secured a place in the World Cup last 16 after defeating the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout. The match, held in Monterrey, Mexico, concluded with a 1-1 draw after extra time before Morocco triumphed 3-2 on penalties. This victory sets up a last-16 clash with Canada.
The Netherlands took the lead in the 72nd minute through Cody Gakpo, who scored following a break from Crysencio Summerville. This goal was met with emotional celebrations from Gakpo, who had recently experienced a personal loss. However, Morocco found an equalizer in stoppage time when Issa Diop headed the ball into the net in the 90th minute, sending the match into extra time.
During extra time, Morocco had a significant opportunity to take the lead when Soufiane Rahimi faced Bart Verbruggen one-on-one, but the Dutch goalkeeper made a crucial save. Despite this, Ismael Saibari ultimately converted the decisive spot-kick in the shootout, securing Morocco‘s advancement.
Celebrations and unrest in the Netherlands
Following Morocco‘s victory, celebrations erupted among the Moroccan community in the Netherlands. In Amsterdam, joyous celebrations began early in the morning, with car horns sounding and fans waving flags. Police presence was noted in areas like Mercatorplein square, which has seen past incidents, but in Amsterdam, the atmosphere remained celebratory.
However, the atmosphere in The Hague took a different turn. Reports indicated that police were pelted with bottles and fireworks. Regional news outlets stated that at least 10 individuals believed to be Morocco fans were arrested in The Hague following attacks on the police. Additionally, 4 Morocco fans were arrested in Rotterdam, though the reasons for these arrests were not specified.
The match had been a significant topic of discussion in the Netherlands, particularly concerning the dual loyalties of Dutch citizens of Moroccan descent. Approximately 440,000 people of Moroccan descent reside in the Netherlands, and many faced questions about which team they would support. While many interactions were good-natured, the debate has been amplified online, partly by political figures.
Impact and player choices
The multicultural nature of the Netherlands squad was highlighted, though it has been over a decade since a player of Moroccan heritage represented the Dutch national team. Several members of Morocco‘s squad, including Noussair Mazraoui, Sofyan Amrabat, and Anass Salah-Eddine, were born in the Netherlands but chose to play for Morocco. This decision has sometimes led to criticism regarding perceived loyalty to their country of birth.
Ronald Koeman, the Netherlands head coach, faced questions about his future following the team’s exit. His tactical decisions, including a shift to a back five against Morocco, have come under scrutiny. Despite leading in the 72nd minute, Koeman‘s side ultimately could not hold on for the win.
Morocco‘s defender Noussair Mazraoui acknowledged the difficulty of the match against a strong opponent, describing the victory as a significant achievement for their national team. Morocco, who were semi-finalists in the previous World Cup, are currently ranked sixth in Fifa‘s rankings, one place above the Netherlands.
The Netherlands‘ wait for World Cup glory continues, as they failed to reach the last 16 for the first time since 2006. Morocco will now prepare for their last-16 match against Canada on Saturday.
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Source: theguardian.com