A stunning second-half performance featuring a brace from Azzedine Ounahi and an additional goal from Soufiane Rahimi propelled Morocco to a 3-0 victory over co-hosts Canada, marking the first time an African nation has advanced to the quarterfinals more than once in World Cup history.
After handling an aggressive Canadian offense in the first half, Morocco took the lead in the 50th minute through a cleverly executed free kick. Achraf Hakimi chose to pass to Ounahi instead of crossing, and the midfielder expertly finished from the edge of the area.
As Canada sought an equalizer, Ounahi sealed the win in the 82nd minute. Following a swift counterattack, Brahim Díaz set him up, allowing Ounahi to blast the ball into the net.
In the eighth minute of stoppage time, Rahimi added a third goal, expertly sliding the ball home to cap off Morocco’s historic victory.
Morocco’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou played a crucial role in keeping Canada scoreless, most notably stopping a shot from Tani Oluwaseyi inside the box.
Despite their efforts in the first half, Canada became the first of the three co-hosts to be eliminated from the tournament.
Morocco’s head coach, Mohamed Ouahbi, expressed pride in the team’s performance: “We are no longer a surprise. Now, when people talk about Morocco, they see us as a major contender, and that’s something to be proud of. I believe this is just the beginning, and I hope we can continue on this path.”
With this victory, Morocco secures their second consecutive quarterfinal appearance after being the first African team to reach the semifinals in 2022. They will take on the winner of the upcoming match between Paraguay and France at Boston Stadium on Thursday.
The loss marks the end of a historic run for co-hosts Canada, who progressed to this stage after winning their first-ever knockout match against South Africa with a 1-0 scoreline. This World Cup tied in with Canada’s third overall appearance, capturing the interest of a nation traditionally more focused on hockey.
Morocco, ranked sixth in the FIFA standings, advanced to the knockout stage by overcoming Netherlands in a penalty shootout in the previous round.
Late chances for Canada included a free kick by Jonathan David in the 78th minute that flew over the bar, and a powerful strike from Tajon Buchanan that was expertly saved by Bounou, who was born in Canada to Moroccan parents and had three crucial saves during the match.
“We take great pride in representing Africa,” said Bounou. “It’s a continent rich in talent that deserves to be at the highest level in football.”
This game also served as a rematch from the previous World Cup, where Morocco defeated Canada 2-1 during the group stage, finishing the tournament in fourth place.
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This match was marked by its physicality, with both teams receiving four yellow cards.
Hakimi and Canada’s Richie Laryea were cautioned for their involvement in a minor altercation in the 40th minute. Hakimi shoved Laryea, leading to a brief scuffle.
Midfielder Ismael Saibari was subbed off due to injury in the 22nd minute.
Information from The Associated Press was utilized in the preparation of this report.