Atlanta, Jun 25 (V7N)- Morocco came from behind twice to secure a thrilling 4-2 victory over Haiti and book their place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite the win, Morocco finished second in Group C, with Brazil claiming the top spot on goal difference.
The match at Atlanta on Thursday (June 25) also witnessed a historic moment for Haiti, who scored their first World Cup goal in 52 years.
Haiti stunned Morocco in the 10th minute when Lenny Joseph found the net after a cross from Jean-Kevin Duveron. The effort took a deflection off Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou before crossing the line. It was Haiti’s first goal at a World Cup since their only previous appearance in 1974.
Morocco responded in the 39th minute through captain Achraf Hakimi, who leveled the score with a well-taken finish. However, Haiti regained the lead just four minutes later when Wilson Isidore struck a superb long-range effort.
The North African side once again found an equalizer before halftime. Ismail Saberi converted a pass from Hakimi to score his third consecutive goal of the tournament, sending the teams into the break level at 2-2.
Morocco dominated the second half and finally took the lead in the 70th minute. Following a corner kick, Sufian Rahimi headed the ball into the net after it deflected off a defender. Gessim Yacine then sealed the victory late in the match with a simple finish from Rahimi’s assist.
The victory ensured Morocco's progression to the last 32 of the tournament. However, finishing second in the group means they could face either the Netherlands or Japan in the knockout round.
Although Haiti ended their campaign without a point, the Caribbean nation earned widespread praise for scoring at the World Cup for the first time in more than five decades and for their spirited performances throughout the tournament.
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