Morocco eliminates Canada to secure quarter-final World Cup berth
Morocco secured their coveted spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals by decisively defeating co-hosts Canada 3-0 in Houston. Azzedine Ounahi scored two crucial goals in the thrilling second half, completing a remarkable turnaround after a surprisingly sluggish start. Building on their historic run to the semi-finals in Qatar four years ago, this talented Moroccan squad continues to cement Africa's growing dominance on the global football stage.
Canada entered the knockout match with immense energy and controlled the early tempo. They pressed hard and forced goalkeeper Yassine Bounou to make several brilliant saves. Tani Oluwaseyi nearly scored in the twelfth minute, but Bounou stretched his left leg to block the highly dangerous low shot. Morocco struggled to build momentum and lost their top scorer, Ismael Saibari, to an early suspected hamstring injury.
Ounahi Sparks Victory
Everything changed dramatically after the halftime break. Five minutes into the second period, Achraf Hakimi tapped a quick free-kick to Ounahi. He struck the ball beautifully from the edge of the box into the bottom corner. This sudden strike shifted control entirely to Morocco. Canada pushed forward desperately to find an equalizer. Tajon Buchanan then fired a powerful long-range shot, but Bounou stopped it again. Leaving spaces at the back cost Canada dearly. Brahim Diaz set up Ounahi for his second goal in the eighty-second minute. Soufiane Rahimi finished off a late counter-attack during stoppage time to seal the final outcome.
Looking Ahead
Morocco now confidently prepares to face either France or Paraguay next week in Boston. They extend their impressive unbeaten streak to thirty-four matches. Canada leaves the tournament with immense pride after reaching the knockout rounds for the very first time in history. They gave their dedicated home fans plenty of memorable reasons to celebrate despite the tough exit.
