World Cup 2026: Morocco Fight Back To Defeat Haiti And Secure Round of 32 Qualification
3 min read
By Sedara Philip
Morocco booked their place in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after producing a spirited comeback to defeat Haiti 4-2 in a thrilling Group C encounter on Wednesday in Atlanta.
The Atlas Lions were made to work hard for all three points by a determined Haitian side that twice took the lead, but Morocco’s quality and resilience ultimately proved decisive as they secured qualification for the knockout stages.
The victory sees the North Africans finish second in Group C with seven points, narrowly behind Brazil on goal difference, and continue their impressive World Cup journey.
The match got off to a nightmare start for Morocco when an unfortunate own goal handed Haiti an early advantage.
In the 10th minute, goalkeeper Bono inadvertently diverted the ball into his own net while attempting to deal with a dangerous attacking move, gifting the Caribbean nation a surprise 1-0 lead.
Haiti’s confidence grew after the opener as they frustrated Morocco with disciplined defending and quick counterattacks.
Despite dominating possession, the Atlas Lions struggled to break down Haiti’s resilient backline until the closing stages of the first half.
Their persistence finally paid off in the 39th minute when Achraf Hakimi reacted quickest inside the penalty area following a scramble in the box and calmly slotted the ball home from close range.
There was a brief delay as the Video Assistant Referee reviewed the goal for a possible infringement, but referee Danny Makkelie allowed the strike to stand, restoring parity at 1-1.
The celebrations were short-lived, however.
Haiti stunned Morocco once again when Wilson Isidor produced a moment of brilliance, unleashing a powerful long-range strike that flew into the top corner to restore his side’s advantage and silence the Moroccan supporters.
Morocco refused to panic and responded immediately before the halftime whistle.
Hakimi, once again influential in attack, played a key role in the equaliser by creating space for Ismael Saibari, who finished clinically to level the score at 2-2 and ensure both sides headed into the interval on equal terms.
The second half was a tense and closely contested affair, with both teams searching for the decisive breakthrough.
Morocco gradually increased the pressure as Haiti defended bravely, but the North Africans’ persistence was eventually rewarded in the 78th minute.
Soufiane Rahimi reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the penalty area and calmly guided his finish inside the post to give Morocco the lead for the first time in the match.
The goal shifted momentum firmly in Morocco’s favour, allowing Walid Regragui’s men to control the closing stages with greater confidence.
A late fourth goal put the result beyond doubt, sealing a memorable 4-2 victory and sparking celebrations among the Moroccan players and supporters as qualification to the Round of 32 was officially confirmed.
The triumph underlined Morocco’s character and determination, overcoming early setbacks to secure another important result on the world stage.
Having finished second in Group C with seven points, level with group winners Brazil but behind on goal difference, the Atlas Lions now turn their attention to the knockout rounds, where they will aim to continue their impressive run and challenge for even greater success at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
