Morocco triumphed over the Netherlands, winning 3-2 in a tense penalty shootout after a thrilling 1-1 draw, securing their place in the last 16 where they will face co-hosts Canada.

Ismael Saibari stepped up to convert the decisive penalty after goalkeeper Yassine Bounou heroically saved Crysencio Summerville's attempt.

"Morocco has gained everyone's respect now," Ouahbi declared to reporters. "It's not just about what we've said; we've demonstrated it on the pitch."

The coach, who ascended from overseeing Morocco's under-20 squad after achieving notable success with the youth teams, emphasized that his players are driven by a purpose that transcends football.

"This team, alongside all the Moroccan youth squads, is fighting for something far greater than just football or merely winning a match," he explained.

"They understand that behind them stand millions of supporters. We played at two in the morning in Morocco, and we are convinced that most people stayed awake. That inspires you to push through, to persevere, and to believe in yourself."

Ouahbi asserted that Morocco had dominated the match, despite needing penalties to secure their advancement.

"We completely dominated a Netherlands team," he stated confidently.

"We enjoyed 70% possession, more shots, and higher expected goals. We managed the game effectively," he elaborated.

"Our aim was to maintain composure, play our game, and trust that if it came down to penalties, we had an exceptional goalkeeper. We avoided turning the match into a chaotic clash; we maintained control throughout."

Ouahbi remarked that the Netherlands' defensive strategy was unexpected but interpreted it as a sign of Morocco's growing reputation on the global stage.

"I was genuinely surprised by their low block, as the Netherlands typically prefers to dominate possession and excels at it," he commented. "I view this style of play as a form of respect toward us."

The 49-year-old coach believes that Morocco's remarkable journey to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar has significantly transformed the mentality of the players.

"In recent years, Moroccan players have developed self-belief, and the supporters have confidence in us as well," he noted.

Looking ahead, Ouahbi acknowledged that Canada will pose a formidable challenge in the knockout stage but expressed that Morocco would enter the match brimming with confidence.

"Nobody can stop us if we play the football we know how to play," he asserted. "However, no team is invincible. If we make mistakes, we could face elimination."