Morocco thrash Canada to become first World Cup 2026 quarter-finalists

Morocco became the first team to reach the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In the round of 16, the African side defeated Canada 3-0 and continued their fight for the title.

The final scoreline was far harsher than the match itself suggested. Canada produced a very respectable performance, looked especially strong in the first half, applied pressure and created chances, but failed to turn their advantage into goals.

Morocco, meanwhile, played with maximum pragmatism and made full use of their opportunities. The African side opened the scoring early in the second half and then gradually took control of the game. In the closing stages, Azzedine Ounahi completed a brace, scoring one of his goals in the 82nd minute.

Canada were forced to push forward, and deep into stoppage time Morocco punished them for the spaces left behind. Brahim Diaz played substitute Soufiane Rahimi through on goal, and in the 90+8th minute he slotted the third past Maxime Crepeau to put the result beyond doubt.

Canada did not deserve such a heavy defeat, but Morocco won through class — they absorbed the pressure, waited for their chances and calmly finished the job.

In the World Cup 2026 quarter-finals, Morocco will face the winner of the France vs Paraguay tie.