Morocco vs Canada World Cup Knockout Showdown

Canada wrote a page in its history by reaching the round of 16 of the World Cup for the first time. But the reward has the look of a trap. On Saturday, July 4, the Canadian squad will have to face Morocco, semi-finalist of the 2022 World Cup and conqueror of the Netherlands on penalties. An opponent that Jesse Marsch probably would not have chosen.

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Questioned by USA Today before his team’s training session, the Canadian coach dropped a very strong statement. Preparing a match against Morocco would be, according to him, like living a "horrible and bloody nightmare". "I don’t want to watch them play. They are too strong," he added, referring to the level displayed by the Atlas Lions in this tournament.

The American coach’s concern is not only due to Morocco’s reputation. USA Today recalls that the Atlas Lions are on an impressive unbeaten streak and occupy the top spots in the FIFA ranking. The American media also emphasizes their midfield mastery, their quality of ball circulation and the ability of players like Ismael Saibari, Achraf Hakimi or Yassine Bounou to make an impact in major matches.

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Canada, for its part, wants to believe in its underdog status. Marsch knows his team will be given as losers, but he also sees it as an opportunity to exceed expectations. With Alphonso Davies returning gradually, Jonathan David and Stephen Eustáquio to lead the attack, the Canadians hope to deliver "the best performance" of their lives. Facing Morocco, they know however that the slightest letdown can be very costly.