American media praised Morocco's performance after the Atlas Lions defeated the Netherlands on penalties in Monterrey. Morocco’s penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands in Monterrey dominated coverage across major American sports media, with outlets praising the Atlas Lions’ resilience, tactical discipline and match management after what many described as the standout tie of the round of 32.
From Fox Sports and ESPN to CBS Sports Golazo, The Athletic and NBC Bay Area, US media devoted extensive analysis to Morocco’s performance against one of the world’s top-ranked teams, highlighting what Fox Sports described as a match played largely on the Atlas Lions’ terms.
Tactical Display Earns Praise
Fox Sports credited Morocco’s resilience and coach Mohamed Ouahbi’s decisions after the team recovered from Cody Gakpo’s 72nd-minute goal to force extra time through Issa Diop’s 91st-minute equaliser.
The outlet also highlighted midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi’s influence in controlling the rhythm of the game, arguing that Morocco never lost its composure despite falling behind.
CBS Sports Golazo focused on goalkeeper Yassine Bounou’s decisive role in the penalty shootout, noting his psychological strength after saving Crysencio Summerville’s spot-kick to secure qualification.
NBC Bay Area described Morocco’s 3-2 penalty shootout victory as one of the most dramatic and unpredictable moments of the football year.
Mexican Crowd Adds Unique Twist
Among American outlets, The Athletic offered a different perspective by focusing on the atmosphere inside Monterrey’s Estadio BBVA, where the majority of Mexican fans openly backed Morocco.
According to the publication, supporters began chanting “No era penal” (“It wasn’t a penalty”) just minutes into the match, recalling the controversial penalty awarded to Arjen Robben during the Netherlands’ victory over Mexico at the 2014 World Cup.
The Athletic said the backing from local fans, combined with the support of Moroccan supporters, overwhelmed the Dutch presence in the stadium.
American media are now turning their attention to Morocco’s round of 16 meeting with co-host Canada on Saturday, July 4, in Houston, predicting a difficult challenge for the Canadians against a Moroccan side riding a wave of confidence.
- Source: MAP