Morocco produced a clinical second-half display to defeat co-hosts Canada 3-0 and secure a place in the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first African nation to reach the last eight in consecutive editions of the tournament.
Gatekeepers News reports that after a goalless first half in which Canada created the better chances, Morocco took control after the break. Midfielder Azzedine Ounahi opened the scoring with a well-worked free-kick routine before adding his second goal later in the match, becoming the first African player to score a brace in a men’s World Cup knockout game since 2002. Substitute Soufiane Rahimi sealed the victory with a stoppage-time strike.
Canada, playing on home soil, exited the tournament despite an encouraging campaign that saw them record their first World Cup victory and progress beyond the group stage. The North Americans were without fully fit captain Alphonso Davies and were unable to convert their early dominance into goals before Morocco capitalised on its opportunities.
Morocco will now face France in the quarterfinals after the French side edged Paraguay 1-0. The Atlas Lions will be aiming to continue their historic run and become the first African team to reach consecutive World Cup semifinals.
