Azzedine Ounahi struck twice and Soufiane Rahimi added a late third as Morocco cruised past co-hosts Canada 3-0 in Houston, becoming the first African nation to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals—and repeat the feat after their historic run in 2022.
Ounahi Inspires Second-Half Surge
After a tense first period in which Canada created the better chances, Azzedine Ounahi broke the deadlock just three minutes after the restart, sweeping home from the edge of the box to settle Moroccan nerves. The midfielder then doubled his tally midway through the half, turning in a low cross after a rapid counter-attack. Soufiane Rahimi sealed the win in the closing stages, pouncing on a defensive error to make it 3-0 and send the Atlas Lions into the last eight.
Canada’s Early Promise Fades
Co-hosts Canada started brightly, with goalkeeper Yassine Bounou forced into several smart stops to keep the scores level. Morocco lost striker Ismael Saibari to injury after just 22 minutes, further emboldening Jesse Marsch’s side. But eight yellow cards and a lack of cutting edge ultimately told, as the Canadians failed to turn possession into clear-cut chances. After the match, head coach Jesse Marsch sparked confusion with a bizarre ‘us and them’ remark, leaving pundits and fans alike scratching their heads as his team became the first of the three North American hosts to exit the tournament.
Historic Milestone for African Football
Under new coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who replaced Walid Regragui in February, Morocco have not only matched the achievements of their celebrated predecessor—they have also delivered a more expansive, attacking brand of football. “In 2022 we made history; now we want to go further,” Ouahbi said in the build-up, and his side now stand on the brink of back-to-back semi-finals. Awaiting them in the quarters will be either France or Paraguay, with the Atlas Lions dreaming of surpassing their Qatar heroics.
Key Takeaways
- Morocco become the first African team to reach two World Cup quarter-finals.
- Azzedine Ounahi’s brace turned the match after a goalless first half.
- Canada, as co-hosts, failed to capitalise on early pressure and exit in the Round of 16.
- Mohamed Ouahbi’s attacking philosophy has rejuvenated the Atlas Lions.
- Morocco next face the winner of Paraguay vs France for a semi-final spot.
Quick Facts
Final Score: Canada 0–3 Morocco
Goalscorers: Ounahi (48’, 67’), Rahimi (84’)
Venue: NRG Stadium, Houston
Yellow Cards: 8 (the most in a single World Cup match so far in 2026)
Morocco’s Quarter-final Opponent: Winner of Paraguay vs France