Morocco Sweeps Canada Aside 3-0 in World Cup Round of 32

Canada’s World Cup dream ended in Houston on July 4 as Morocco delivered a clinical 3-0 victory in the Round of 32. The Atlas Lions weathered an early storm and then struck decisively after halftime to book their place in the next round. Jesse Marsch’s side started with their trademark high press, making life uncomfortable for Morocco in the first half. Canada created several half-chances but lacked the final touch. Morocco stayed patient, absorbing pressure and waiting for openings. The breakthrough came in the 50th minute from a set piece. Azzedine Ounahi got on the end of a corner kick and fired past Dayne St. Clair. That goal shifted the momentum entirely. Canada had to push forward, leaving gaps at the back. Ounahi doubled his tally in the 82nd minute, finishing a swift counterattack. Then deep into stoppage time, Soufiane Rahimi added a third to put the result beyond doubt. Morocco’s substitutions injected fresh energy, while Canada’s players visibly faded. For the tournament co-hosts, this defeat marks a disappointing exit. They fought hard but couldn’t match Morocco’s efficiency in front of goal. Lineups: Canada: Crépeau — Johnston, de Fougerolles, Bombito, Laryea (P. David, 79) — Buchanan (Nelson, 88), Sigur (Osorio, 88), Eustáquio, Ahmed (Shaffelburg, 79) — J. David, Oluwaseyi (Larin, 63). Morocco: Bounou — Hakimi, Diop (Saadan, 87), Halhal, Mazraoui — Bouaddi (Amrabat, 63), El Aynaoui — Díaz, Ounahi (El Mourabet, 87), El Khannouss (Talbi, 63) — Saibari (Rahimi, 22). Bookings: Laryea, J. David, de Fougerolles, Larin — Halhal, Hakimi, Ounahi, El Khannouss.