Morocco became the first African nation to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals after a commanding 3-0 victory over Canada in their Round of 16 clash in Houston on Saturday.
Midfielder Azzedine Ounahi starred with two goals before Soufiane Rahimi sealed the victory with a late strike as the Atlas Lions comfortably ended Canada’s historic World Cup campaign.
The victory sends Morocco into the last eight, where they will face the winner of the Round of 16 match between France and Paraguay. It also marks another milestone for Moroccan football, making them the first African country to reach the World Cup quarterfinals on two occasions after their historic semifinal run in Qatar in 2022.
Morocco weathered Canada’s energetic start before taking control through Ounahi, whose clinical finishing put the North Africans firmly in command. Rahimi added a third goal in stoppage time to complete an emphatic performance as Morocco kept a clean sheet and never looked in serious danger.
Canada, appearing in the knockout stage for the first time in their history, created early opportunities but failed to convert them. Their tournament ended despite a spirited display, while Morocco once again demonstrated the defensive organization and efficiency that have become hallmarks of their recent success on the world stage.
Morocco will now await the winner of France versus Paraguay in the quarterfinals as they continue their pursuit of another historic World Cup run.
