Atlanta, United States - Morocco have become the first African nation to qualify for the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after fighting back twice to beat Haiti 4-2 in their final Group C match.
The Atlas Lions were made to work hard in Atlanta after Haiti stunned them with two first-half leads. An own goal by Yassine Bounou handed Haiti an early advantage before Achraf Hakimi levelled for Morocco. Haiti then restored their lead through Wilson Isidor, but Ismael Saibari equalised again before the break to keep Morocco alive in the contest.
Morocco eventually showed their class in the second half, with Soufiane Rahimi putting them ahead for the first time in the 78th minute before Gessime Yassine sealed the victory late on. The win secured Morocco second place in Group C behind Brazil on goal difference, with both teams finishing on seven points.
The result means Morocco are through to the knockout stage as the first African side to seal passage into the Round of 32, underlining the country’s growing status as one of Africa’s leading football powers after their historic run to the semi-finals in Qatar four years ago. As it stands, the North Africans are set to face the winners of Group F in the next round.
Post a Comment