Morocco became the first African team to reach the World Cup quarterfinals twice after a 3-0 victory over co-hosts Canada in Houston on July 4, 2026. Despite a dominant first half from Canada, two goals from Azzedine Ounahi and a late strike from Sofiane Rahimi secured the win.
First-Half Struggles for Morocco
Canada, ranked 30th in the world, pressed high and created several early chances. Jonathan David, Tani Oluwaseyi, and Alistair Johnston all missed opportunities. Morocco managed only one touch in Canada's box in the first half. Coach Jesse Marsch had earlier said Morocco had "zero weaknesses," but his team's performance suggested otherwise.
Ounahi's Brace Changes the Game
Ounahi broke the deadlock shortly after halftime with a long-range strike. He added a second later, and Rahimi sealed the win in added time. "These days, there are no easy teams anymore," said Ounahi, who was named Man of the Match. "In the first half, we had some problems building up from the back, but in the second, we stayed calm."
Morocco's Unity and Support
Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz provided two assists, taking his tournament tally to four. "Sometimes football is like this. The World Cup is really difficult," he said. "I'm so proud of my team." The 68,777 fans in the stadium created a loud atmosphere, with Moroccan supporters whistling throughout. "Sometimes I feel like crying when I see them out celebrating," Ounahi added.
Canada's Historic Campaign Ends
Canada reached the knockout stage for the first time, having earned their first World Cup point and victory earlier in the tournament. Stephen Eustaquio said, "The fact we reached the last 16 shows the level we're getting to." Jayden Nelson noted, "If we had taken our chances in the first half, it would have been a completely different game."
Quarterfinal Against France
Morocco will now face France in the quarterfinals, a rematch of the 2022 semifinal which France won. "Our goal is to make them proud," said Ounahi. "If we all stay united, we'll achieve the best possible result."
