Sofyan Ounahi Scores Twice as Morocco Overcome Plucky Canada to Reach World Cup Quarterfinals
Morocco has become the first nation to secure a spot in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals, extending their unbeaten run to 10 matches with a 3-0 win over co-hosts Canada. The co-hosts, who started strongly, became the first to be eliminated from the tournament.
Canada had a gilt-edged opportunity in the opening 15 minutes, but Tani Oluwaseyi's shot was blocked by Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. The co-hosts continued to create half-chances, with Alistair Johnston heading straight at a defender from 12 yards.
Morocco struggled in the first half, with their only sight of goal being a long-range shot from Soufiane Rahimi that was easily saved by Maxime Crepeau. However, they improved significantly after the interval, scoring within five minutes of the restart through Azzedine Ounahi.
Canada's best chance to equalize came when Jonathan David clipped a free-kick over the bar, prompting boss Jesse Marsch to make changes. The co-hosts increased the pressure, with Tajon Buchanan's drive from distance needing to be turned around the post.
But Morocco countered with a second goal, as Brahim Diaz set up Ounahi to score with a powerful shot. Soufiane Rahimi added a third goal with almost the last kick of the game, showcasing Morocco's danger in the latter stages of the competition. Despite their elimination, Canada made history by progressing beyond the group stage for the first time.
Canada had a gilt-edged opportunity in the opening 15 minutes, but Tani Oluwaseyi's shot was blocked by Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. The co-hosts continued to create half-chances, with Alistair Johnston heading straight at a defender from 12 yards.
Morocco struggled in the first half, with their only sight of goal being a long-range shot from Soufiane Rahimi that was easily saved by Maxime Crepeau. However, they improved significantly after the interval, scoring within five minutes of the restart through Azzedine Ounahi.
Canada's best chance to equalize came when Jonathan David clipped a free-kick over the bar, prompting boss Jesse Marsch to make changes. The co-hosts increased the pressure, with Tajon Buchanan's drive from distance needing to be turned around the post.
But Morocco countered with a second goal, as Brahim Diaz set up Ounahi to score with a powerful shot. Soufiane Rahimi added a third goal with almost the last kick of the game, showcasing Morocco's danger in the latter stages of the competition. Despite their elimination, Canada made history by progressing beyond the group stage for the first time.
#News, #Football