Morocco Advances After Tactical Shift Stuns Canada 3-0
Morocco advanced to the 2026 World Cup semifinals after a dominant 3-0 victory over Canada on July 4, with goals from Ounahi twice and Rahimi following a tactical shift in the second half.
Morocco's head coach Mohamed Ouhabi praised his team's excellent tactical adjustment in the second half that secured victory, while Canada's coach Jesse Marsch believes his team played better but was only lacking in attacking precision. In the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 on July 4, Morocco decisively defeated co-host Canada 3-0. Goals came from Azzedine Ounahi in the 50th and 82nd minutes, and Sofyan Rahimi in the 90+8th minute. Morocco advanced to the semifinal round and will face the winner of the Paraguay-France match on July 9. Ouhabi stated: "The opponent planned cleverly and played with high-pressure tactics. We adjusted our approach in the second half. We needed more patience building play through midfield. Our players adapted brilliantly to the tactical change, and that difference led us to victory." Marsch said: "We were the better team. Although they had higher quality in attack, we played fully committed without defensive focus. I preferred our team spirit over theirs. No matter how good Morocco is, I'd still rather be our team. I'm very happy with my team."
