Morocco defeated host nation Canada 3-0 in the first round of the World Cup. Known as the “Atlas Lions,” Morocco displayed a particularly strong second half after both teams went into halftime locked at 0-0. Azzedine Ounahi was named man of the match, securing the victory with two goals scored in the 50th and 82nd minutes, while Soufiane Rahimi added a late goal during stoppage time.
The first half was characterized by an intense performance from the Canadians, who put pressure on the Moroccan side and rarely allowed them space. Although Canada created more scoring opportunities, their shots were repeatedly thwarted by the strong defense of Moroccan goalkeeper Bono. Oluwaseyi, for instance, came close in the 10th minute but failed to score from a short range before the break.
Following the halftime interval, Morocco played with greater effectiveness and successfully utilized the available space. In the 50th minute, Ounahi put his team ahead after receiving a pass from Hakimi; he slotted the ball into the bottom right corner from sixteen meters out. Despite Canada increasing its pressure, Morocco’s defense remained stable and conceded few further chances.
In the final phase of the game, Ounahi ensured the lead was insurmountable with his second strike in the 82nd minute, following a quick counterattack to make it 2-0. Although Canada pressed hard towards the end, achieving numerous corners, Soufiane Rahimi finished off the North Africans’ victory during stoppage time. Morocco will now face the winner between Paraguay and France on Thursday in the quarterfinals.
