Morocco cruise into World Cup quarter-finals with dominant win over Canada
Morocco have booked a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Canada 3-0 in their Round of 16 clash at Houston Stadium on Saturday.
The Atlas Lions, who reached the semi-finals at the 2022 World Cup, overcame a difficult first half before producing a clinical second-half performance to eliminate the tournament co-hosts. Morocco will now face either France or Paraguay in the quarter-finals.
Canada, playing in the biggest match in their football history, started brightly and created the better chances in the opening half. Tani Oluwaseyi forced goalkeeper Yassine Bounou into an early save, while Alistair Johnston missed a free header from a corner as the Canadians piled pressure on Morocco.
Morocco also suffered a setback in the first half when in-form midfielder Ismael Saibari, who had scored three goals at the tournament, was forced off through injury. The opening 45 minutes were largely dominated by fouls and bookings, with referee Michael Oliver issuing six yellow cards, including cautions for Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi and Canada’s Richie Laryea after a brief confrontation.
The North Africans returned from the break with renewed purpose and broke the deadlock five minutes into the second half. Hakimi delivered a low free-kick to Azzedine Ounahi, who fired a first-time effort into the net through a crowded penalty area, leaving goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau with little chance.
Canada pressed for an equaliser but struggled to break down Morocco’s disciplined defence. Ounahi sealed victory in the 82nd minute, finishing another swift attacking move for his second goal of the match.
Substitute Soufiane Rahimi added further gloss to the scoreline, scoring Morocco’s third goal with the final kick of the match to complete an emphatic victory.
The result ends Canada’s historic World Cup campaign, making them the first of the three tournament co-hosts to be eliminated, while Morocco continue their impressive run and remain Africa’s strongest hope in the competition.
Key Highlights
Morocco defeated Canada 3-0 to reach the World Cup quarter-finals.
Azzedine Ounahi scored twice, while Soufiane Rahimi added a late third.
Canada impressed in the first half but failed to convert their chances.
Morocco will face either France or Paraguay in the quarter-finals.
Canada become the first co-host nation eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.