Morocco sent the Netherlands to its earliest World Cup exit, prevailing 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Monterrey on Monday night. The Atlas Lions advanced to the Round of 16, while the Dutch were eliminated at that stage for the first time since 2002.
Netherlands defender Nathan Ake started and played the full match, but the Dutch could not convert their chances in regulation. Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made a crucial save in the shootout, while Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders saw his spot-kick saved. Morocco coach Mohamed Ouabhi declared his team could be "unstoppable" if they play to their potential.
In The Hague, celebrations turned violent as fans clashed with police. Authorities said "heavy fireworks were set off" in the Schilderswijk district, and officers were pelted with fireworks and stones. The Netherlands has a sizable Moroccan community, and the victory sparked both jubilation and unrest.
Meanwhile, Germany captain Joshua Kimmich ruled out international retirement after Monday's heartbreaking loss to Paraguay. "What I will never do is give up," he said, adding that he remains determined to make another attempt at World Cup glory.
Morocco now advances to face England, who reached the knockout phase and were described by coach Thomas Tuchel as entering a phase where "the tournament starts now." Germany, meanwhile, faces a period of reflection after another premature exit.