Morocco secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup by defeating tournament co-hosts Canada 2-0 in their round of 16 match in Houston on Saturday.
Azzedine Ounahi scored both goals for the Atlas Lions in the second half, capitalizing on a set-piece and a fast counter-attack.
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Ounahi Breaks the Deadlock
The North African side broke the deadlock in the 50th minute. Achraf Hakimi rolled a short free-kick to Ounahi, who struck a powerful effort into the net.
Canada had failed to convert their first-half opportunities, leaving the match scoreless at halftime.
Second Goal Seals Victory
Ounahi doubled the lead in the 82nd minute.
He finished a blistering counter-attack orchestrated by Brahim Diaz, who checked back before setting up the midfielder to fire the ball into the roof of the net.
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Canada attempted a late comeback by making tactical changes and pushing forward during eight minutes of stoppage time.
However, the Moroccan defense intercepted loose passes to maintain the clean sheet.
The match saw several disciplinary actions.
Canadian substitutes Cyle Larin and Luc De Fougerolles received yellow cards, while Morocco had four players booked in the first half alone.
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Morocco will face either France or Paraguay in the upcoming quarterfinal round.
