Morocco sealed their place in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals with a commanding 3–0 victory over Canada in the Round of 16, a match defined by Azzedine Ounahi’s brilliance and the spirited involvement of two Canada players with Nigerian roots: Tani Oluwaseyi and Promise David.
The breakthrough arrived just after the restart and set Morocco on their way.
In the 50th minute, Azzedine Ounahi produced a composed finish from the edge of the box, sweeping the ball into the bottom corner after being set up by Achraf Hakimi.
The strike rewarded Morocco’s growing control and left Canada chasing the game.
Canada’s attacking hope had largely rested on Oluwaseyi, the Abuja-born striker who led the line with energy and movement.
He repeatedly looked to trouble Morocco’s defence with intelligent runs between the lines and sharp positioning inside the box.
His most notable moment came in the first half when he latched onto a loose ball, turned sharply, and forced a low save from Yassine Bounou.
It was a rare glimpse of threat from Canada, but one that failed to shift Morocco’s defensive discipline.
Oluwaseyi’s influence faded after the hour mark, and he was substituted in the 63rd minute after a tireless but isolated shift against Morocco’s compact structure.
Canada later turned to Promise David to provide a more physical presence in attack.
Introduced in the 78th minute, the former Nigeria U23 international brought aggression and pressing intensity, attempting to unsettle Morocco’s rhythm.
However, Morocco quickly closed down space and prevented Canada from turning pressure into clear chances.
In the 82nd minute, Ounahi struck again with a clinical finish into the top corner after a clever pass from Brahim Diaz, effectively ending the contest and sealing his brace.
Deep into stoppage time, Morocco added a third when Soufiane Rahimi converted from close range after another incisive move involving Diaz, putting a final stamp on a dominant performance.
Wale Adejumo
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