Morocco are steadily establishing themselves as one of the genuine contenders at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The “dark horse” label that once followed the Atlas Lions is beginning to fade after they once again eliminated a favored opponent and secured a place in the quarterfinals.
A convincing 3-0 victory over Canada in the Round of 16 at NRG Stadium, Houston, on Sunday, July 5, 2026, provided the latest evidence of the African side’s growing strength. The result extended Morocco’s impressive campaign after they had previously knocked out the Netherlands in a penalty shootout in the Round of 32.
Their current run recalls their historic performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, when they became the first African nation to reach the semifinals. This time, however, Morocco are considered to possess greater squad depth and maturity, making them even more credible challengers for the title.
Despite the emphatic scoreline, Morocco’s path to the quarterfinals was far from straightforward.
Canada dominated much of the first half with aggressive pressing and high-intensity play, preventing the Atlas Lions from settling into their rhythm. Jonathan David and Tani Oluwaseyi repeatedly threatened Morocco’s goal.
Fortunately for the African side, goalkeeper Yassine Bounou once again demonstrated his class by making several outstanding saves to keep the match scoreless at halftime.
The momentum shifted dramatically after the break.
Head coach Mohamed Ouahbi introduced several tactical adjustments that allowed Morocco to control possession more effectively and escape Canada’s pressure. The changes paid off immediately in the 50th minute.
From a well-worked free-kick routine, Achraf Hakimi played a short pass to the unmarked Azzedine Ounahi outside the penalty area. The 25-year-old midfielder unleashed a powerful strike beyond the reach of Maxime Crepeau.
The goal completely transformed the match.
Canada lost their rhythm, while Morocco grew increasingly confident in dictating the tempo. Ounahi added his second goal in the 82nd minute after receiving an assist from Brahim Diaz, before Soufiane Rahimi sealed the victory in stoppage time to complete a commanding 3-0 win.
Football analyst Juprianto Alexander believes Morocco can no longer be regarded merely as a surprise package.
According to him, the African side’s consistent performances since the group stage prove they possess the quality to compete for the World Cup title.
“In my opinion, Morocco are no longer a dark horse. They have shown that they are a team capable of competing for the championship. That was evident from the group stage when they were able to match Brazil,” he said.
He added that Morocco’s victories over the Netherlands and Canada, along with their impressive performance against Brazil, highlighted the team’s growing maturity.
Although they struggled against Canada’s pressure in the opening half, Ouahbi’s tactical adjustments proved decisive.
“They weren’t at their best in the first half compared to their previous matches. But after halftime, the coach’s tactical changes made them much more aggressive, and they eventually scored three goals,” he explained.
Squad Depth
Juprianto believes Morocco’s greatest strength lies in the depth and balance of their squad across every position.
Players such as Achraf Hakimi, Noussair Mazraoui, Brahim Diaz, and Azzedine Ounahi have all made significant contributions throughout the tournament.
According to him, Brahim Diaz’s two assists and Ounahi’s brace against Canada illustrate that Morocco are not dependent on any single player.
“Their squad is exceptionally well-balanced. Every area of the team features players with experience at Europe’s top clubs, and that is reflected in the overall quality of their performances,” he said.
However, a new challenge awaits Morocco ahead of the quarterfinals.
The concern extends beyond the strength of their next opponents, France, as the Atlas Lions may have to cope without forward Ismael Saibari, who suffered a hamstring injury against Canada. The injury is expected to make his participation in the quarterfinal highly unlikely.
Juprianto acknowledged that Saibari’s absence would be a setback for Morocco’s attack but remains confident that the team’s squad depth is sufficient to remain competitive against France.
The clash with Les Bleus is also expected to carry added significance, as it offers Morocco an opportunity to avenge their defeat in the World Cup semifinal four years ago.
“France have been extremely solid, but Morocco arrive full of confidence after holding Brazil, defeating the Netherlands, and now eliminating Canada. I believe they still have a real chance of producing another surprise,” Juprianto said.***
