Ouahbi salutes fans as Morocco reaches World Cup last 16

Morocco’s celebrations continued long into the night after the Atlas Lions secured a dramatic victory over the Netherlands to book their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Amid scenes of jubilation across the country, national team coach Mohamed Ouahbi dedicated special praise to Moroccan supporters whose unwavering belief helped fuel another memorable chapter in the nation’s football story.

Speaking after Morocco’s tense penalty shootout triumph, Ouahbi acknowledged the emotional impact of the victory on millions of supporters. He noted that many Moroccans stayed awake until dawn celebrating the achievement but predicted they would head to work the next day with smiles on their faces, energized by a result that united the country.

The victory sparked widespread celebrations throughout Morocco, with fans gathering in city centers, public squares, and neighborhoods to celebrate the elimination of the Netherlands and Morocco’s progression to the knockout stage. The result further strengthened the bond between the national team and its supporters, a connection that has become a defining feature of Moroccan football in recent years.

Ouahbi stressed that the match was far from straightforward. Facing a disciplined Dutch side, Morocco had to demonstrate patience, concentration, and resilience throughout the contest. According to the coach, the team’s composure under pressure played a decisive role in the outcome.

He highlighted the players’ ability to maintain control through possession, disciplined organization, and the creation of scoring opportunities. While the match ultimately required penalties to determine the winner, Ouahbi insisted the result was fully deserved and reflected the effort displayed by his squad from start to finish.

The coach also emphasized that football sometimes demands accepting victory in different forms, including through penalty shootouts. For Morocco, the manner of the win mattered less than the achievement itself: advancing to the next stage of the world’s biggest football tournament.

In his post-match remarks, Ouahbi dedicated the victory to all Moroccans and to King Mohammed VI. He described the qualification as another step in an ongoing journey and underlined that the team’s mission is far from complete. The Atlas Lions, he said, remain focused on continuing their work and pursuing further success in the competition.

One of the most striking aspects of Ouahbi’s comments was his recognition of the role played by supporters. Responding to questions about Morocco’s impressive performances, he pointed to the encouragement the team receives through messages, letters, and constant backing from fans both inside the country and abroad.

That sentiment was echoed by star defender and captain Achraf Hakimi, who praised the team’s fighting spirit after the victory. Hakimi said the Atlas Lions demonstrated their identity as a major football force, with every player battling until the final moments of the contest.

The Paris Saint-Germain defender emphasized that Morocco created significant opportunities and controlled large portions of the match. He also paid tribute to goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, whose presence and experience gave the squad confidence throughout the encounter and proved crucial during the decisive penalty shootout.

Hakimi extended his gratitude to Moroccan supporters, acknowledging the atmosphere they created and the motivation their support provides to the players during high-pressure matches.

Midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi also celebrated the achievement, describing the victory as a reflection of Morocco’s confidence, preparation, and determination. While recognizing the challenges posed by the Netherlands, he said the team’s collective mentality and resilience ultimately made the difference.

Morocco’s qualification continues a remarkable period for the national team, which has established itself as one of the most competitive sides on the international stage. The Atlas Lions have built a reputation for tactical discipline, defensive solidity, and an ability to rise to the occasion in major tournaments.

Attention now turns to the Round of 16, where Morocco is set to face Canada on Saturday at 6 p.m. Moroccan time. With confidence growing and national enthusiasm reaching new heights, the Atlas Lions will look to extend their World Cup adventure and keep a nation dreaming of another historic achievement.