Updated

Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 30

Gakpo Scores 72nd-Minute Goal Days After Losing Unborn Son as Netherlands Fall on Penalties

Updated

Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 30

Gakpo Scores 72nd-Minute Goal Days After Losing Unborn Son as Netherlands Fall on Penalties

Q: After Germany's 50-year penalty streak ended, which powerhouse is most at risk of a shocking early exit next?

Portugal looks most at risk of becoming the next heavyweight to suffer a shock exit. That assessment is the clearest from the broader knockout-stage analysis. Portugal were flagged as vulnerable after an uneven group stage in which they drew with DR Congo and Colombia and struggled for goals. The concern was described as structural rather than just about Cristiano Ronaldo, with analysts arguing that Portugal must quickly find attacking solutions. Their opponent also matters. Croatia were specifically identified as a side with the experience and tournament pedigree to punish any weakness and “again send Portugal home,” making this more than a theoretical upset warning. Other major teams have shown warning signs, but the evidence is less direct. The Netherlands were in immediate danger against Morocco after conceding a stoppage-time equalizer and needing key saves from Bart Verbruggen in extra time. Belgium were noted as vulnerable because of a slow start and defensive issues, while England were criticized for a lack of creativity. Brazil advanced, but not comfortably, after needing a stoppage-time winner against Japan. Germany’s loss to Paraguay showed how little protection reputation offers in this expanded Round of 32. On the available evidence, Portugal are the most clearly exposed next: shaky form, limited scoring, and a dangerous knockout opponent.

3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 30

Cody Gakpo broke down after scoring in the 72nd minute against Morocco, only days after the death of his unborn son.
Noa van der Bij announced on Saturday that the couple's baby boy, due in October, had died during pregnancy, but Gakpo stayed with the Netherlands squad.
Netherlands teammates swarmed Gakpo after the goal, and captain Virgil van Dijk embraced him as play resumed.
Morocco forced extra time when Issa Diop equalized in stoppage time, then won 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw; Gakpo went off in the 113th minute and did not take a spot kick.
The Liverpool forward, 27, started every Netherlands game at the World Cup and finished the tournament with 3 goals.

Sources

bbc.co.uk2h ago

Cody Gakpo Scores for Netherlands Days After Loss of Unborn Son

Yahoo Sports4h ago

Netherlands, Morocco Draw 1-1 in World Cup Round of 32, Forcing Extra Time

Sports Illustrated1d ago

Netherlands vs. Morocco—World Cup: Preview, Predictions and Lineups

12 Sources

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2026 World Cup Round of 32: Netherlands (7) vs. Morocco (6) Locked in Extra Time Thriller

Overview

The Round of 32 match between the Netherlands and Morocco is a tightly contested battle, reflecting the high expectations set by their close global rankings—Morocco at 6th and the Netherlands at 7th. Taking place at Monterrey Stadium in Mexico, the game has kept spectators on edge, with both teams locked in a scoreless draw at halftime. Morocco showed early attacking intent, outshooting the Netherlands, but neither side could break the deadlock during regular time. The intensity and balance of the match highlight the stakes and excitement of this crucial World Cup knockout stage.

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