Doha: Morocco advanced to the round of 16 at FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 as Group H leaders after defeating Canada 2-1 on Thursday in the final group stage fixture at Al Thumama Stadium.
Morocco’s goals came from the Chelsea forward Hakim Ziyech in the seventh minute and Sevilla striker Youssef En-Nesyri in minute 23. An own goal from center back Nayef Aguerd in minute 40 made 2-1.
This victory takes Morocco to the knockouts with seven points along with second-placed Croatia whose tally jumped to five points following a goalless draw with Belgium at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium.
Belgium who finished third with four points were eliminated along with fourth-placed Canada who received three straight losses.
Morocco are set to clash with Group E runners-up in the round of 16 on Tuesday, while Croatia will face Group E leaders. Group E includes Spain, Germany, Costa Rica and Japan.
This is Morocco’s second progression to the knockouts after their 1986 achievement when they were eliminated in the quarterfinals after a 0-1 defeat from Western Germany in a hard-fought game.
Source: Qatar Olympic Committee