2026 World Cup: Issa Diop, the Lion who changed everything for Morocco against the Netherlands

An MVP Performance

Immediately installed by Mohamed Ouahbi as the leader of the Moroccan defense from the March break onward, Issa Diop quickly adapted as if he had grown up with this group. His relative calm contrasts with his tough interventions and solid performances such as the one he delivered against the Netherlands on the night from Monday to Tuesday.

Starting as he has been since the beginning of the competition, the Fulham central defender was immense in the Atlas Lions’ backline with 3 interceptions, 7 clearances, one blocked shot, one recovery and a 100% success rate in aerial duels he contested. It was in this same area, but offensively, that he scored the equalizing goal with a header in stoppage time (90+1) to force extra time for Morocco.

A crucial goal at a pivotal moment for Morocco, who were heading toward elimination in the round of 32. It highlights Diop’s immense mental fortitude, as he pounced at the right moment like a Lion on its prey to save his side. Issa Diop thus became – according to Stats du Foot – the second Moroccan player to score in stoppage time of the second half in World Cup history after Zakaria Aboukhlal against Belgium on November 27, 2022 (90+2'). Logically, he was named "Man of the Match" for this game after his side’s victory in the penalty shootout.

Morocco Still Well on Track

After holding Brazil to a draw in their World Cup opener (1-1), Morocco continues to prove that their 2022 adventure in Qatar was no fluke. With this dramatic victory, the Atlas Lions show they know how to suffer even in matches they dominate, such as the one against the Oranje (70% possession for the Atlas Lions).

In the round of 16, Mohamed Ouahbi and his men will face Canada, one of the host countries of this 2026 World Cup, with the goal of making an impression once again and qualifying for the tournament quarterfinals, in hopes of making history this time after a historic semifinal four years ago in Qatar.