Morocco's national football team became the first to qualify for the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals after defeating Canada 3-0 on Saturday in the opening match of the Round of 16. The 'Atlas Lions' reached the quarterfinals for the second time in their World Cup history, following their run to the semifinals in the previous edition held in Qatar 2022. A goalless first half gave way to a dominant second half as Morocco unleashed their attacking prowess, scoring three goals against Canada — one of the three co-hosts. Azzedine Ounahi scored a brace (50', 82') and substitute Sofiane Rahimi added another in stoppage time (90+8'). The only blemish for Morocco was an early first-half injury to striker Ismael Saibari, who had to be substituted. Morocco will face either Paraguay or France in the quarterfinals on Thursday in Boston; the two teams will meet later in Philadelphia. Meanwhile, Canada's campaign ended in the Round of 16, marking only their third World Cup appearance.