Morocco became the first African side to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the second time, defeating Canada 3-0 in Houston on Tuesday. Goals from Azzedine Ounahi (2) and Soufiane Rahimi secured the victory, ending Canada's tournament journey.
Match Overview
After a cagey first half in which Canada dominated possession and created chances, Morocco took the lead six minutes into the second half. Achraf Hakimi pulled back a free-kick for Ounahi to sweep in from just outside the area. Ounahi added his second late on after a break led by Chemsdine Talbi and Brahim Díaz, before Rahimi made it three in injury time from another Díaz-led transition.
Ounahi's Key Role
Ounahi was perhaps fortunate to still be on the field. Booked in the first half, he tugged at Ali Ahmed a few minutes before his goal, which could have led to a second yellow card. Canada's Stephen Eustáquio appeared to appeal to referee Michael Oliver, but no action was taken. The midfielder then scored twice to seal the win.
Canada's Early Pressure
Canada started with ferocious energy, forcing Morocco to defend deep. Yassine Bounou made a fine save with his feet from Tani Oluwaseyi. However, once Morocco stemmed the tide, Canada's momentum faded. Coach Jesse Marsch later said, "We were better than them in the first half, but we didn't score. In the end, they were more clinical."
Morocco's Tactical Shift
Under coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who replaced Walid Regragui in February, Morocco have adopted a more progressive style. However, this performance was reminiscent of Regragui's pragmatic approach: dogged, dour, and reliant on counterattacks. Ouahbi's team recognised their limitations and played intelligently within them.
Historical Context
Morocco are the first African nation to reach two World Cup quarter-finals, having also done so in 2022 under Regragui, who led them to the semi-finals. Regragui left after the controversial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal. Ouahbi, formerly an assistant at Anderlecht, led Morocco to the Under-20 World Cup title last year.
Injury Blow
Morocco lost midfielder Ismael Saibari to injury just before the first hydration break. Saibari had been one of the tournament's standout players. Without him, Morocco managed only one touch in the Canadian box before halftime.
Looking Ahead
Morocco will face either Portugal or Switzerland in the quarter-finals. Canada exit the tournament after failing to advance from the group stage for the second consecutive World Cup.
