João Sacramento took to Instagram on Tuesday, June 30, to express his pride in the Atlas Lions after Morocco defeated the Netherlands on penalties (1-1, 3-2) to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 16. The assistant coach praised his players’ resilience while expressing his gratitude to Moroccan supporters.
The Portuguese coach first reflected on Morocco’s qualification, writing, “Qualified for the round of 16! A night full of emotions. A team that never gave up and believed until the very end. Thank you.”
He continued “I’ve had the opportunity to work with great teams and some of the greatest players in history. But nothing had prepared me for what I feel with these players. They are the greatest pride of my career. I have no words to thank them for everything they do for this country, match after match.”
Sacramento concluded his message by addressing Moroccan supporters directly: “To the Moroccan people: Please keep believing in these players.”
The Atlas Lions will now turn their attention to their next challenge, facing Canada on Saturday, July 4, at NRG Stadium in Houston in the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
