(Football news) Morocco have the opportunity to progress into the Round of 16 if they win or draw against already eliminated Canada at the Al Thumama Stadium. Group F remains incredibly tight and tough to call and if the North African side lose, they will need Croatia to lose by at least two goals more than they do or for Belgium to lose in order to progress into the last 16. If Morocco lose by four goals, even a draw in the other fixtures will be enough to knock them out of the competition.
Realistically, Morocco have been very unfortunate to not go through already despite taking points from both the other teams they are competing against. The North African side should have no problems against the Maple Leafs, especially if their 2-0 win over Belgium is anything to go by. Walid Regragui\’s side have been the surprise package of the tournament so far and will be unlucky to potentially face the winners or runners-up of Group E if they qualify into the next round, especially if their opponents are one of Spain or Germany.
As for Canada, they were convincingly beaten 4-1 by Croatia and in all likelihood, it could have been much worse if not for goalkeeper Milan Borjan. Their attention will now turn to the 2026 World Cup where they will be the hosts alongside the USA and Mexico. Canada were unlucky not to get a result against Belgium but missed a penalty and were wasteful in front of goal, which meant that they became the second team after Qatar to be eliminated from the competition. The aim now will be to not finish on zero points like they did in 1986 and give their young and talented side enough exposure to do better the next time around.
In team news, Canada boss John Herdman has a decision to make with regards to fielding his strongest lineup to try and get some points or give his fringe players an opportunity for some valuable experience. Ismael Kone, who has featured twice as a substitute, could replace 39-year-old Atiba Hutchinson who might be rested for this dead rubber game. Junior Hoilett could come back into the side after Cyle Larin failed to make an impact against Croatia while with Davies could partner Jonathan David further forward.
As for Morocco, Munir Mohamedi could continue featuring in goal as a replacement for Yassine Bounou while full back Noussair Mazraoui could feature once again in the starting lineup despite going off injured against Croatia. The North African side are expected to secure qualification into the Round of 16 in this fixture but it’s going to be a close match between the two teams.
Also read: 2022 World Cup: Mexico knocked out despite defeating Saudi Arabia
