Doha ∙ Looking ahead to a thrilling pre-quarter after just one win, Morocco took a two-goal lead in 23 minutes to face Canada at the Al Thumama Stadium. Hakim Ziyech (4th minute) and Youssef N Nesiri (23rd minute) scored for Morocco. Morocco can play in the prequarters from Group F if they win against Canada.
Morocco capitalized on Canada’s mistake to take an early lead. During the confusion in the Canadian defence, the ball went straight to Milan Borhan, who is also the captain of Canada. Under pressure from the Moroccan player who ran with the ball, Borhan cleared the ball just outside the box to the foot of Hakim Ziyech. Siech’s smashing chip went over Borhan’s head and into the net. Score 1–0.
The throw ball paved the way for the goal in the 23rd minute. N Nesiri took advantage of the opportunity and hit the ball to the post.
In the 40th minute, Morocco scored a goal for Canada. Adekugbe’s shot from the left wing hit the leg of Morocco’s Nayef Aguird and his own ball went into his own post. Score 1–2.
In the 44th minute, Morocco scored a goal but was caught offside and the goal was disallowed. N Neysiri scored from Ciech’s free kick, but the offside flag was raised and the goal was denied.
Morocco dominated the first half. Morocco also scored the first own goal in the 2022 World Cup.
A win or draw against Canada will see Morocco advance to the next round. If Morocco loses against Canada and Croatia wins the Croatia-Belgium match, Croatia and Morocco advance to the prequarters. Belgium must win. If you lose, you will be out. Canada was eliminated after losing both matches.
Canada
Milan Borgen (capt), Alistair Johnston, Kamal Miller, Steven Vitoria, Sam Adekugbe, Junior Hoilett, Mark Anthony Kye, Jonathan Osorio, Tajon Buchanan, Kyle Larin, Alphonso Davies.
Coach: John Herdman
Morocco
Romain Saiz (Captain), Yassin Bounu, Ashraf Hakimi, Nowsair Masroy, Nayef Agued, Sofian Amrabat, Azedin Onai, Abdelhamid Sabiri, Hakim Siyech, Sofian Boufal, Youssef N Neseri,
Coach: Hollid Regragui
English Summary: FIFA World Cup: Morocco vs Canada live updates