Kansas City, US, June 26: Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman has identified Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi as a key player ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 encounter scheduled for June 30 in Monterrey.
The Netherlands secured the top spot in Group F after registering a 3-1 victory over Tunisia in their final group-stage match at Kansas City Stadium on Thursday. The Dutch side finished the group stage unbeaten with two wins and one draw, while Tunisia exited the tournament without a victory.
The Netherlands will now face Morocco, who reached the semifinals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup and progressed to the knockout stage once again.Speaking to NOS, Koeman said Hakimi would be a major threat for his side.
“He is the star man and a very good right-back, so we have to prepare ourselves very well for him,” Koeman said.Defender Jean Paul van Hecke said he was looking forward to the Round of 32 fixture.”
These are the games you want to play at a World Cup. I think it is going to be a very heated match,” he said.
Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk said Morocco possess quality players and are expected to provide a strong challenge.
Midfielder Frenkie de Jong also praised Morocco, recalling the team’s performances in recent international competitions.”Of course, they reached the semifinals at the last World Cup, and I think they have a few very good players. It is going to be a beautiful match,” De Jong said.
The Round of 32 match between the Netherlands and Morocco will be played on June 30 in Monterrey.