Morocco topped their group with a haul of seven points, the most ever for an African side at a World Cup. Matthias Hangst/Getty Images
DOHA, Qatar — Morocco booked their spot in the knockout phase of the World Cup thanks to a 2-1 victory over Canada at Al Thumama Stadium on Thursday.
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Hakim Ziyech punished poor Canadian defending to delicately chip home from 35 yards into an unguarded net for their opener, while Youssef En-Nesyri doubled their lead in the 23rd minute with a powerful finish. Canada pulled a goal back just before the break with Nayef Aguerd turning the ball into his own net.
Canada were the better of the two teams in the second half, and came close with Atiba Hutchinson‘s header striking the bar and then the line — and they leave this World Cup with zero points but plenty of admirers for their performances and ambition.
For Morocco, this win means they top Group F and equal their best finish at a World Cup, after the 1986 team reached the round of 16 in Mexico.
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