Morocco Books Quarter-Final Place with 3-0 Win Over Canada
Morocco became the first side to lock in a quarter‑final berth at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating co‑hosts Canada 3‑0 in a commanding second‑half performance. The win extends Morocco’s unbeaten streak to ten matches and marks the first elimination of a tournament co‑host.
Early Chances for Canada
Canada started brightly and almost stunned the North Africans within the opening quarter‑hour. Tani Oluwaseyi found a promising shooting position, but goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made a vital save to keep the scores level.
The hosts continued to press before the break. Alistair Johnston headed a close‑range effort straight at a Moroccan defender after shaking off his marker, while Morocco struggled to create clear openings. Their best first‑half chance came from Soufiane Rahimi, whose long‑range shot was comfortably gathered by Maxime Crépeau.
Morocco’s Second‑Half Surge
After the interval, Morocco emerged with renewed purpose and broke the deadlock just five minutes into the restart. Achraf Hakimi delivered a clever free‑kick that found the unmarked Azzedine Ounahi, who swept the ball into the bottom corner.
Canada Misses Chances
Canada searched for a response but lacked the cutting edge shown earlier. Jonathan David missed a golden opportunity from a free‑kick just outside the box, sending his effort over the crossbar.
Jesse Marsch’s substitutions injected fresh energy into the Canadian attack, and Tajon Buchanan forced Bounou into a fine save with a powerful strike from distance as the hosts pushed for an equaliser.
Ounahi Completes Brace, Rahimi Seals Win
Morocco then sealed the result in devastating fashion. Brahim Díaz broke clear on the right and unselfishly squared the ball for Ounahi, who rifled his finish into the roof of the net to complete his brace and send the Atlas Lions into the last eight.
Rahimi added further gloss to the scoreline with virtually the final kick of the match, scoring Morocco’s third goal.
What’s Next for Morocco?
The victory means Morocco have now won seven of their last nine knockout matches at major international tournaments. In the quarter‑finals they will face either Paraguay or France.
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