World Cup: Morocco send co-hosts Canada out, enter quarters

Canada stretched the defence of the 2022 semi-finalists until halfway through the first half, but could not make the openings count. After a phase of rough challenges, and pushing and jostling that saw referee Michael Oliver show the yellow card to six players in the first half, Morocco gradually took control. In all seven players were cautioned, four of Morocco.

Switching tactics and overloading the right wing, Morocco made a 50th minute free-kick count. Midfielder Ounahi swept home a cleverly worked routine after captain Achraf Hakimi laid the ball to him on top of the penalty box.

As Canada poured forward in search of an equaliser to stay in the tournament, they tired and Morocco hit them again with a rapid counter.