Morocco face Canada for place in World Cup quarter-finals
Morocco continue their FIFA World Cup campaign on Saturday when they face co-hosts Canada in Houston, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake.
The Atlas Lions have once again emerged as Africa's standard-bearers after overcoming the Netherlands on penalties to reach the Round of 16, extending an impressive run that has seen them remain unbeaten throughout the tournament.
Mohamed Ouahbi's side have continued to grow into the competition, following a draw with Brazil and victories over Scotland and Haiti before holding their nerve from the spot against the Dutch. Their composed display in possession against the Netherlands underlined the confidence with which they have approached this World Cup.
Canada, meanwhile, are enjoying the finest World Cup campaign in their history. Jesse Marsch's men claimed their first-ever victory in a World Cup knockout match when Stephen Eustaquio struck deep into stoppage time to defeat South Africa 1-0.
The co-hosts have built their success on relentless intensity, aggressive pressing and quick transitions, while Jonathan David remains their principal attacking threat. Canada have also found the net in each of their last six matches.
The two nations last met at the 2022 World Cup, when Morocco recorded a 2-1 victory during the group stage on their way to a historic run to the semi-finals.
Team news could provide a further boost for Morocco, with Chadi Riad expected to be available despite being forced off against the Netherlands. Bayern Munich midfielder Ismael Saibari is also set to retain his place after continuing his impressive tournament.
Canada, meanwhile, have been handed a timely lift with Alphonso Davies back in contention after making his long-awaited return from injury as a substitute against South Africa. However, Ismael Kone remains unavailable, while Jesse Marsch must decide between Jacob Shaffelburg and Liam Millar on the left flank, and who partners Jonathan David in attack.
With a place in the quarter-finals on the line, Morocco will look to draw on their knockout experience, while Canada aim to keep their historic World Cup journey alive on home soil.
Morocco predicted lineup:
Bono; Hakimi, Diop, Riad, Mazraoui; El Aynaoui, Bouaddi; Diaz, Ounahi, El Khannouss; Saibari
Canada predicted lineup:
Crepeau; Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Laryea; Buchanan, Saliba, Eustaquio, Shaffelburg; Jonathan David, Oluwaseyi
