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Yassine Bounou Equals Historic FIFA World Cup Penalty-Saving Record

Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou has matched one of the greatest goalkeeping records in FIFA World Cup history after denying Kylian Mbappé from the penalty spot in the quarterfinal against France.

By the Atlas Lions Editorial Desk10 Jul 2026How we report

Yassine Bounou has added another remarkable achievement to his growing World Cup legacy after matching the all-time record for the most penalties saved in FIFA World Cup history.

According to statistics released by Opta, the Morocco goalkeeper reached the historic milestone after saving Kylian Mbappé's penalty during the Atlas Lions' quarterfinal against France.

A Place Among Goalkeeping Legends

Opta reports that Bounou has now saved four penalties across FIFA World Cup tournaments, with the tally including penalties taken during matches as well as penalty shootouts.

That achievement sees the Atlas Lions' goalkeeper join an exclusive group of legendary shot-stoppers who share the record.

Among them are Harald Schumacher of Germany, Dominik Livaković and Danijel Subašić of Croatia, Sergio Goycochea of Argentina, and Iker Casillas of Spain.

Another Historic Milestone

Bounou's latest penalty save further strengthens his reputation as one of Morocco's greatest-ever goalkeepers.

Throughout consecutive World Cup campaigns, the 35-year-old has consistently produced decisive moments on football's biggest stage, combining composure, leadership, and exceptional reflexes whenever his country has needed him most.

Outstanding Numbers

According to Opta's data, Bounou has faced nine penalties during FIFA World Cup tournaments, including both penalties awarded during matches and shootouts.

He has successfully saved four, conceded two, while three additional penalties missed the target, underlining his extraordinary record from the spot.

A Lasting World Cup Legacy

Although Morocco's 2026 World Cup journey came to an end in the quarterfinals, Bounou's performances once again highlighted his importance to the Atlas Lions.

His penalty save against Mbappé was another reminder of the qualities that have made him one of the world's most dependable goalkeepers and a symbol of Morocco's rise on the international stage.

By equaling one of the most prestigious records in World Cup history, Yassine Bounou has once again secured his place among football's greatest goalkeeping icons while continuing to inspire the next generation of Atlas Lions.

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atlaslions.com is an independent digital media platform dedicated to Moroccan football and global diaspora culture. Run by Atlas Media Network LLC, this content is published under fair-use reporting guidelines for news, commentary, and educational purposes, and is not affiliated with FRMF or with FIFA.