Morocco have qualified for the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the second consecutive time after a dominant 3-0 victory over co-host Canada on Friday, July 5, 2026. The match, played at the NGR Stadium in Houston, saw all goals scored in the second half, securing the Atlas Lions a spot in the last eight.
Match Summary: Ounahi's Brace and Rahimi's Late Strike
Morocco faced an early setback when Ismail Saibari sustained an injury, replaced by Azzedine Ounahi. In the 50th minute, Ounahi latched onto a well-worked free-kick routine from Achraf Hakimi, firing a right-footed effort from outside the penalty area into the bottom corner. With eight minutes remaining, the Girona forward scored his second, converting a through pass from Real Madrid star Brahim Diaz before calmly slotting home. Substitute Soufiane Rahimi completed the scoring in the 90+8 minute, wrapping up a memorable victory for Walid Regragui's side.
Prize Money Breakdown: How Much Morocco Will Earn
Morocco's quarterfinal qualification brings significant financial rewards. Every team that qualified for the tournament received USD 1.5 million for preparation costs. After finishing second in Group C behind Brazil, Morocco advanced to the Round of 32, earning an additional USD 11 million. With their Round of 16 victory over the Netherlands (4-2 on penalties) and subsequent win against Canada, Morocco will now receive over USD 13.5 million for reaching the quarterfinals. This amount includes the earlier payments, totaling at least USD 13.5 million for their campaign so far.
Coaches' Reactions: Ouahbi and Marsch Reflect
Moroccan head coach Mohamed Ouahbi expressed gratitude for the progress, acknowledging Canada's impressive performance despite the scoreline. "We are very happy. It’s a World Cup match and these are difficult games with teams playing for their lives. We reacted very well in the second half in the second balls and the duels," Ouahbi said. "I have to recognise that Canada were impressive – they played a top match. It was no surprise for us but in the second half we were able to profit from the space they left us – that was the key."
Canada head coach Jesse Marsch admitted that Morocco's quality in the final third made the difference. Morocco will now face France in the quarterfinals in Boston on Thursday, July 9, aiming for a semifinal spot.
Morocco's Journey and African Representation
The Atlas Lions, winners of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, are one of only two African teams to reach the Round of 16, alongside Egypt, after seven others were eliminated in the Round of 32. CAF had backed Morocco to triumph over Canada, and the team delivered. As they prepare for the quarterfinal clash, Morocco's performance continues to inspire African football.
