RABAT / AA

Moroccan fans praised the fighting spirit and professionalism of their national team during the match in which they defeated their Canadian counterpart, reaching the quarter-final stage.

In separate statements to Anadolu, they said that winning the World Cup is now within reach after reaching the quarter-finals of this competition.

The Moroccan national team qualified for the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup for the second time in its history on Saturday evening, following a 3-0 victory over Canada in the round of 16.

**Fighting spirit and professionalism

Hind Benani praised the fighting spirit and professionalism of the Moroccan national team against Canada.

Speaking to Anadolu, Benani added that the team managed to bring happiness to the hearts of Moroccans.

She considered that this victory was well-deserved.

Similarly, Amna Al-Makhloufi praised the level shown by the national team.

Speaking to Anadolu, Al-Makhloufi said the players delivered a wonderful performance, as well as the fighting spirit shown in the final minutes of the match.

Al-Makhloufi said the cup is not far from her country's team.

Cafes and fan zones in many cities witnessed large attendance on Saturday during the match between Morocco and Canada.

Anadolu correspondent reported that the fan zone in the city of Kenitra (northwest) saw enthusiasm throughout the match, with fans chanting passionate slogans.

The square was crowded with fans hours before the match started.

These zones are located in many cities such as Rabat, Casablanca, Kenitra (west), Agadir (south), Fez (center), and Marrakech (south).

Cafes in Rabat and other cities were also packed to capacity due to this match.

On the occasion of the 2026 World Cup, Morocco launched 'fan zones' in several cities of the kingdom, aiming to provide suitable spaces for the public that combine passion for sports, entertainment, and culture.

**The cup is not far off

For his part, Abdallah Al-Touati praised player Azzedine Ounahi, who was the man of the match.

Speaking to Anadolu, Al-Touati said that Morocco will win the upcoming match against France and will go far in this competition.

Hussein Slawi also praised the level of the national team, despite the high level shown by the Canadian team.

In an interview with Anadolu, he considered that coach Mohamed Wahbi showed great tactical prowess.

He pointed out that the cup will be for Morocco.

**Giant screens

Inside the Prince Moulay Al Hassan Stadium in Rabat, which hosted the last Africa Cup of Nations competitions, organizers set up giant screens to turn the stadium into an open public space.

Thousands of citizens followed the match in an exceptional, enthusiastic atmosphere, especially as it saw strong competition from Canada.

The 'fan zones' add passion and spirit to football, as well as providing competitions, sports and cultural games, and other entertainment services.

Morocco launched these zones, which include giant screens for watching matches, in addition to other services such as cafes, restaurants, and artistic activities.

These spaces have turned into a beating heart, combining sports, entertainment, and education in an atmosphere where Moroccan fans gather.

It is worth noting that the Moroccan national team qualified for the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties last Tuesday.