Netherlands extend abysmal FIFA World Cup penalty shootout record after loss to Morocco

Key Takeaways:

• The Netherlands have been eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup by Morocco.
• The decisive factor was yet another penalty shootout loss for the Dutch.
• Cody Gakpo scored the opening goal in the 72nd minute.
• This result continues the Netherlands’ historically poor record in penalty shootouts.
• The article was originally published by Yardbarker on June 30, 2026.

A Familiar Struggle

The Netherlands entered the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup carrying a history of heartbreak in penalty shootouts. That trend continued, as they once again found themselves unable to secure victory from the spot. Despite promise on the field, their longtime Achilles’ heel resurfaced in a crucial moment.

Gakpo’s Moment of Hope

With the match scoreless late in the second half, Cody Gakpo struck in the 72nd minute, giving the Netherlands a vital advantage. His well-taken goal briefly appeared to set the Dutch side on course for the next round. Fans and players alike hoped it would be enough to fend off any need for a penalty shootout.

Morocco Seizes the Decider

Morocco, showing resilience and determination, weathered the Dutch lead and forced a shootout to decide the outcome. In the final moments, they capitalized on the Netherlands’ frailties from the spot, successfully converting enough penalties to seal their advancement in the tournament.

A Disappointing End for the Dutch

For the Netherlands, this defeat adds another chapter to an ongoing saga of penalty shootout misfortunes on soccer’s biggest stage. Despite holding the advantage with Gakpo’s goal, they ultimately could not hold off the Moroccan challenge. With this latest exit, the Dutch extend their “abysmal” record in FIFA World Cup penalty shootouts, leaving their supporters to wonder when they will finally break the trend.