Ounahi’s Brace Helps Morocco Beat Canada 3-0, Reach FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter-Finals

Morocco became the first team to secure a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter-Finals after defeating Canada 3-0 in a dominant Round of 16 encounter played in Houston. Midfielder Azzedine Ounahi starred with a brilliant second-half brace, while Soufiane Rahimi added a stoppage-time goal to seal an impressive victory for the Atlas Lions.

Canada started brightly and put Morocco under sustained pressure during the opening stages, but the North African side defended resolutely before taking complete control after the break. Morocco will now face the winner of the France vs Paraguay Round of 16 clash in the quarter-finals.

⚽ Morocco vs Canada – Match Summary

⚽ Goal Scorers

🔥 Match Highlights

• 🇨🇦 Canada dominated possession during the opening stages.
• 🟨 The referee produced several yellow cards as the match became increasingly physical.
• 🚑 Ismael Saibari was forced off early due to injury.
• ⚽ Ounahi opened the scoring with a superb first-time strike from a cleverly worked free-kick.
• ⚽ The Moroccan midfielder completed his brace with a composed finish after an excellent through ball from Brahim Díaz.
• ⚽ Soufiane Rahimi wrapped up the victory deep into stoppage time with a clinical left-footed finish.

⭐ Ounahi Steals the Show

Azzedine Ounahi delivered another outstanding World Cup performance. His movement, creativity, and finishing proved too much for the Canadian defence as he scored twice to guide Morocco into the last eight. His first goal came from an inventive set-piece involving Achraf Hakimi, while his second demonstrated excellent composure after being played through by Brahim Díaz.

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🇨🇦 Canada’s Campaign Ends with Pride

Although Canada’s FIFA World Cup 2026 journey ended in the Round of 16, they leave the tournament with plenty of positives. The Canadians impressed throughout the competition with energetic performances and exceeded expectations by reaching the knockout stage before bowing out against one of the tournament’s strongest teams.

📅 What’s Next for Morocco?

With this victory, Morocco becomes the first nation to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter-Finals. The Atlas Lions will now await the winner of the France vs Paraguay Round of 16 encounter as they continue their quest for another historic World Cup run.

📺 Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 Live

Football fans in India can watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 live on ZEE5 in Malayalam, English, Hindi, and Bangla, while television coverage is available through the Unite8 Sports channels.

⚽ Round of 16 Fixtures – FIFA World Cup 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 continues with two blockbuster fixtures in the early hours of 6 July (IST). Five-time champions Brazil take on a resilient Norway side in New Jersey, while Mexico face England in what promises to be another thrilling knockout encounter in Mexico City. With a place in the quarter-finals at stake, both matches are expected to deliver high-intensity football.