FIFA World Cup 2026: Morocco edge spirited Haiti 4-2 to seal round of 32 spot
Atlanta, June 25
Morocco secured a hard-fought 4-2 victory over Haiti in an entertaining FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C clash in Atlanta, coming from behind twice to confirm their place in the World Cup Round of 32 as group runners-up.
Haiti made a dream start, shocking Morocco in the 10th minute. Lenny Joseph reacted quickly inside the box after a dangerous cross from Jean-Kevin Duverne, with the ball deflecting off goalkeeper Yassine Bounou for an own goal to give Haiti a 1-0 lead. Notably, the goal marked Haiti's first at the World Cup in 52 years.
Morocco pushed forward in search of an equaliser and eventually found it in the 39th minute when Achraf Hakimi scored from close range after Bilal El Khannouss' effort was saved and rebounded into his path.
The match remained open and dramatic, and Haiti struck again just before the break. Wilson Isidor produced a stunning long-range curling effort in the 43rd minute to restore Haiti's lead at 2-1. However, Morocco responded almost immediately, with Ismael Saibari finishing a well-placed cross from Hakimi in stoppage time to level the match at 2-2 going into halftime.
Morocco dominated possession in the second half, controlling around 70% of the ball and creating several chances, but Haiti defended resiliently with goalkeeper Johny Placide making key saves to keep the score level. Despite their control, Morocco had to rely on tactical changes to break through.
The turning point came after substitutions around the 70th minute, with Soufiane Rahimi and Gessime Yassine added to increase attacking intensity. Rahimi made an instant impact, scoring in the 78th minute after pouncing on a loose ball from a corner to put Morocco ahead for the first time.
As Haiti pushed forward in search of an equaliser, Morocco struck on the counter in the 89th minute. Rahimi turned provider this time, delivering a low cut-back for Gessime Yassine to finish into an empty net, sealing a 4-2 win.
Morocco finished strongly with 22 shots and 11 on target the FIFA website, while Haiti exited the tournament with pride after a spirited performance.
— ANI
Reader Comments
What a match! Haiti really surprised me - they didn't just defend, they went for it. Wilson Isidor's goal was a beauty. Morocco's depth made the difference in the end though. The World Cup is better with African teams doing well.
The commentary on Bounou's own goal was a bit harsh - it deflected off him, these things happen. But honestly, Morocco's comeback spirit is commendable. 22 shots, 11 on target - that's how you win matches! Our Indian Super League teams could learn from this attacking intent.
Haiti's resilience is inspiring considering their circumstances back home. But Morocco showed why they're a top African side - patience and quality off the bench. Soufiane Rahimi changed the game completely. As an Indian football fan, I just wish we could have this level of tactical sophistication in our national team setup.
Great match overall but Morocco's defence needs tightening - conceding two quick goals like that isn't ideal for knockout stages. Still, credit where due, they found a way to win. Haiti can hold their heads high after this performance. 🇭🇹
As a football lover from India, matches like these make me wish our government invested more in grassroots football. Morocco and Haiti both played with such passion! That goal from Isidor was world-class. Congrats to Morocco for advancing! 🎉
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