The performances of the Atlas Lions are “no longer a surprise,” the Italian press wrote on Tuesday, praising Morocco’s “fully deserved” qualification for the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup after defeating the Netherlands in Monterrey, Mexico.
The Moroccan side delivered an outstanding performance, dominating the match from start to finish and confirming its status as a top football nation by defeating the Dutch team 3-2 in a penalty shootout, Italian media reported.
“Morocco beat the Netherlands and qualified for the Round of 16, which it will enter as favorites, because Mohamed Ouahbi’s team is a great side,” wrote Italian daily La Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Atlas Lions once again demonstrated the quality of their football against the Oranje, who largely limited themselves to defending, the sports daily noted, adding that Morocco controlled the match with a more sophisticated attacking game plan.
For its part, Sport Mediaset described the clash between Achraf Hakimi and his teammates and the Dutch side as “exceptional.”
Morocco fully deserved its qualification, the outlet continued, with the Atlas Lions producing a solid display to confirm their impressive form following their historic run to the semifinals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Meanwhile, Eurosport.it highlighted the heroics of Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou during the penalty shootout. The outlet noted that Bounou piled the pressure on Dutch winger Crysencio Summerville, who missed the Oranje’s final penalty, while Ismaël Saibari converted the decisive spot kick for Morocco.
Eurosport.it was also full of praise for Bounou, describing him as a goalkeeper who “has the qualities of a leader,” always ready to step in when needed. It added that the Moroccan shot-stopper commands his defense with natural authority and consistently delivers outstanding performances.
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