Doha ∙ Heading into a thrilling pre-quarter after just one win, Morocco took a two-goal lead in 23 minutes to face Canada at Al Thumama Stadium. Hakim Ziyech (4th minute) and Youssef N Nesiri (23rd minute) scored for Morocco. Morocco can play in Group F preliminaries if they win against Canada.
Morocco capitalized on Canada’s mistake to take an early lead. During the confusion in the Canadian defense, 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 onto Hakim Ziyech’s foot. Siech’s fantastic chip went over Borhan’s head and into the net. Score 1–0.
The throw-in paved the way for the goal in the 23rd minute. N Nesiri takes advantage of the opportunity and hits the post.
In the 40th minute, Morocco scored a goal for Canada. Adekugbe’s shot from the left touchline hit Moroccan Nayef Aguird’s leg and his own ball landed on his 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 denied.
Morocco dominated the first half. Morocco also scored their first own goal at the 2022 World Cup.
A win or draw against Canada will see Morocco progress to the next round. If Morocco loses to Canada and Croatia wins the Croatia-Belgium match, Croatia and Morocco advance to the quarterfinals. Belgium must win. If you lose, you will be out. Canada was eliminated after losing both games.
Canada
Milan Borgen (captain), Alistair Johnston, Kamal Miller, Steven Vitoria, Sam Adekugbe, Junior Hoilett, Mark Anthony Kye, Jonathan Osorio, Tajon Buchanan, Kyle Larin, Alphonso Davies.
Coach: John Herdmann
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
