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Morocco produced a dominant second-half display to defeat Canada 3-0 and book their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending the co-hosts’ impressive tournament run in the Round of 16.
The Atlas Lions weathered an energetic start from Jesse Marsch’s side before taking complete control after the break, with Azzedine Ounahi delivering a match-winning performance.
Morocco’s disciplined defending, clinical finishing and swift counter-attacking once again underlined why they are among the strongest teams remaining in the competition.
Canada entered the knockout clash in Houston hoping to continue their historic World Cup campaign after edging South Africa in the previous round.
The North American side began brightly, pressing high up the pitch and creating the better chances during the opening exchanges through Jonathan David and Tani Oluwaseyi.
Despite Canada’s positive start, Morocco remained composed.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou marshalled his defence expertly while Achraf Hakimi and Nayef Aguerd kept Canada’s attacking threats under control.
The first half ended goalless after a physical contest that produced several bookings but few clear-cut opportunities.
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Morocco emerged from the interval with renewed intensity and broke the deadlock just minutes into the second half.
Midfielder Azzedine Ounahi finished off a well-worked set-piece to put the Atlas Lions ahead and shift the momentum firmly in their favour.
Canada responded by introducing fresh attacking options, but Morocco’s compact defensive shape denied them any route back into the contest.
As the Canadians pushed more players forward in search of an equaliser, gaps began to appear at the back.
Morocco capitalised ruthlessly. Ounahi struck again after a devastating counter-attack before the Atlas Lions added a late third goal to complete an emphatic 3-0 victory, sealing one of the most convincing performances of the Round of 16.
The result extended Morocco’s remarkable World Cup run.Having already eliminated the Netherlands on penalties in the previous round, they now advance to the last eight full of confidence and will face the winner of the clash between France and Paraguay for a place in the semi-finals.
For Canada, the defeat brought an end to a memorable campaign.
The co-hosts reached the knockout stage for the first time and recorded their maiden World Cup knockout victory, achievements that represent significant progress under head coach Jesse Marsch despite the heavy loss to Morocco.
