Atlas Lions of Morocco became the second African side to reach the knockout stage of this World Cup, after they defeated Canada 2-1 to win group F.
Morocco, who reached the round of 16 for the first time since 36 years, opened scoring in the fourth minute, when The Canada keeper sprinted out of his goal but passed the ball straight to Hakim Ziyech, who lofted a cool finish into an open net from 30 yards.
The North Africans doubled their lead through Youssef En-Nesyri’s well-taken goal as he controlled Achraf Hakimi’s superb pass before firing in.
But sloppy defending gave Canada a route back into the game when West Ham’s Nayef Aguerd stuck a boot out to divert the ball into his own net – the 100th goal scored at this World Cup.
Croatia qualified for the knockout stage after a goalless draw with Belgium, who are now eliminated from the World Cup despite being ranked second in the World.
As group winners, Morocco will meet the team that will finish second in group E, which comprises of Spain, Japan, Costa Rica and Germany.
Croatia will meet the team that will finish first in the group.
