Morocco made history by becoming the first African nation to reach the World Cup quarterfinals more than once, following a resounding 3-0 victory over co-hosts Canada at the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026.
African champions, the Atlas Lions of Morocco, continue their impressive World Cup campaign after defeating Canada in the Round of 16 to clinch a quarterfinal spot, where they will face former world champions France again.
Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi declared that his team is “no longer a surprise” but a major contender on the world stage following their victory over Canada. Azzedine Ounahi opened the scoring in the 50th minute and added a second goal by the 82nd, while Soufiane Rahimi sealed the win with a third goal in stoppage time. Coach Ouahbi remarked, “We’re no longer a surprise today and that’s a great source of pride. I think this is only the beginning.”
Proudly regarded as a formidable team, Morocco stands on the brink of making history once again if they can overcome France in the upcoming quarterfinals. The Atlas Lions famously reached the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup by defeating Portugal, only to have their dream run halted by a 2-0 loss to France. Now, as the two strong football nations prepare to meet again, anticipation is high for what many Moroccan fans are calling a “revenge match”—a fight-it-all encounter with a place in the semi-finals at stake. Will France Stop Morocco Again?
Morocco fans celebrated with great joy and excitement outside Houston Stadium after their team’s victory, eagerly looking ahead to the highly anticipated clash against France on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
