World Cup: Morocco beats Canada 3-0 with Ounahi brace to reach quarterfinals

Morocco advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup by defeating host nation Canada 3-0 in a match marked by numerous yellow cards. Midfielder Azzedine Ounahi was the star, scoring two goals, while Soufiane Rahimi added a late strike to seal the victory.

The first half was a tense affair, with limited scoring opportunities and four Moroccan players receiving yellow cards. Canada also struggled to generate offense, and the teams combined for only five shots before halftime. The intensity escalated around the 40-minute mark, leading to a confrontation and six yellow cards issued to players from both sides.

Ounahi broke the deadlock in the 50th minute with a long-range shot following a free kick. Canada's Cyle Larin then received the eighth yellow card of the match. In the 82nd minute, Morocco launched a quick counter-attack, and Ounahi scored his second goal after a pass from Brahim Diaz.

Rahimi further solidified Morocco's win in the 98th minute during stoppage time. Despite the loss, reaching the Round of 16 marks Canada's best performance in the World Cup to date. Morocco will face the winner of the France-Paraguay match in the quarterfinals.