Morocco Crush Canada 3-0 as Ounahi Masterclass Sets Up France Rematch

In a ruthless display of tournament pedigree, Morocco ended Canada's historic World Cup run with a commanding 3-0 victory in the Round of 16 at Houston's NRG Stadium. A devastating second-half performance from Azzedine Ounahi—who bagged a brilliant brace—propelled the Atlas Lions into the quarter-finals for a blockbuster rematch with France, while simultaneously crushing the dreams of the North American co-hosts.
Despite a spirited opening from the Canadians that had the underdogs dictating the early tempo, Morocco's quality and clinical edge ultimately proved insurmountable. The result marks the first time an African nation has reached back-to-back World Cup quarter-finals, cementing the Atlas Lions' status as genuine global contenders.
Jesse Marsch's men entered the contest as heavy underdogs against the world's No. 6-ranked side, yet they played without an ounce of fear in the opening 45 minutes. The Canadians pinned Morocco deep in their own half, earning three early corner kicks and forcing veteran goalkeeper Yassine Bounou into two sharp saves inside the first 15 minutes.
Tani Oluwaseyi tested Bounou with a thunderous strike from a tight angle in the 11th minute, while Jonathan David—Canada's talismanic forward—blazed a close-range effort straight at the Moroccan shot-stopper shortly after. Despite Morocco enjoying 56% possession, it was Canada who carved out the clearer opportunities, outshooting the Atlas Lions 4-1 before the interval.
However, Morocco's defensive resilience was matched by their physicality. Referee Michael Oliver brandished six yellow cards in a fractious first period—four to Morocco and two to Canada. The flashpoint arrived in the 39th minute when Achraf Hakimi body-checked Richie Laryea into the advertising boards, sparking a heated scuffle that saw both players booked. Morocco also suffered an early setback when star striker Ismael Saibari was forced off with an injury after just 22 minutes, but his replacement, Soufiane Rahimi, would later play a pivotal role.