Morocco, first exciting against Canada (2-1) before finishing feverishly, won Thursday for the second time in its history a ticket in the 1/8 finals, even taking 1st place in group F of the Cup of the world 2022 which he completes undefeated. After a draw against Croatia (0-0) and an even more resounding victory against Belgium (2-0), the Moroccans once again proved effective.
After three frustrating eliminations in the World Cup in the first round, the Atlas Lions even managed for the first time the pass of two victories in a row. This bodes well for the future, even if they could now find Germany on their way, who had eliminated them in 1986 in their only 8th so far, or even Spain, who will try in turn in the evening to imitate them in group E.
An Unclear Canada
Faced with a Canada as naive as it was technically imprecise despite an ambitious direct game, the Moroccans were expeditious, opening the scoring in the 4th minute after a blunder by Borjan whose exit far from his goal was penalized by a long shot from Ziyech.
Quickly, Hakimi then offered the break point to En-Nesyri, thus allowing the team to rely even more on a game favoring the circulation of the ball in midfield. A little sleepy by this easy start, Morocco has however imperceptibly released its grip. While Canada, with David on the bench, had never been dangerous until then, he found a way to deceive the vigilance of the ghost Bounoud, surprised by a deviation from his own defender Aguerd.
Canada is empty
In the second period, while the Canucks had raised their level, it was Hutchinson who found the bar of Moroccans who may have become stingy with their efforts or simply tired.
Instead of winning a first honorary point in the World Cup, the players of Herdman, who will have to wait to become the first coach to win in men and women at this level, must finally settle for a 6th defeat. in a row in as many meetings.
Next host of the 2026 World Cup with the USA and Mexico, Canada can consider having made a good impression with its unbridled game but it has also been able to measure the path to be accomplished to be more competitive in four years.