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Morocco secured their spot in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals with a commanding 3-0 win over co-hosts Canada in Houston, setting up a high-stakes clash against either France or Paraguay for a place in the semi-finals.
The breakthrough came in the second half when Azzedine Ounahi opened the scoring with a precise first-time finish after a well-executed free-kick by Achraf Hakimi. This goal ignited the game after a slow, foul-ridden first half that saw Morocco struggle to settle and suffer an injury blow with Ismael Saibari forced off the field.
Second-Half Surge Secures Morocco’s Victory
Canada, appearing in their nation’s most significant football match to date after reaching the knockout stages for the first time, started brightly. Early attempts by Tani Oluwaseyi and a header from Alistair Johnston tested Morocco’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, but the hosts could not convert their chances into a lead.
Despite Canada’s initial pressure, Morocco grew المزيد confident after halftime. Five minutes into the second half, Ounahi capitalized on a swift counterattack to double the lead, again showcasing his composure and positioning. The Atlas Lions then maintained their defensive discipline as Canada searched desperately for a response.
In stoppage time, Soufiane Rahimi sealed the victory with a late goal, rounding off Morocco’s dominant performance and ensuring a clean sheet in this historic knockout triumph.
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