Morocco completed their 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage campaign with a compelling 4–2 comeback victory over Haiti at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Wednesday evening, securing their place in the round of 16. The result confirmed Morocco as runners-up in Group C behind Brazil, who defeated Scotland 3–0 in the simultaneous fixture. With identical points but a superior goal difference of plus six against Morocco’s plus three, Brazil claimed top spot, meaning the Lions of the Atlas will travel to Monterrey, Mexico, for their next match.
Coach Mohamed Ouahbi made notable adjustments to his starting line-up, handing Ayoub El Kaabi his first World Cup start at center-forward while recalling Sofyan Amrabat to midfield and introducing Redouane Halhal and Anass Salah-Eddine in defense. The changes did not spare Morocco an early setback: in the 11th minute, Lenny Joseph converted a cross from Jean-Kevin Duverne with a deft back-heel that deflected off Yassine Bounou to put Haiti ahead against the run of play.
Morocco equalized through Achraf Hakimi in the 39th minute, only to concede again four minutes later when Wilson Isidor unleashed a powerful effort that left Bounou with no chance. The first half ended 2–2 after Ismael Saibari converted a precise Hakimi assist just before the break in what proved to be a spectacularly open 45 minutes.
Ouahbi’s triple substitution at the 70th minute — introducing Soufiane Rahimi, Azzedine Ounahi and Gessime Yassine — immediately revitalized Morocco’s attacking play. Eight minutes later, Rahimi controlled a poorly cleared corner and converted with a half-volley that deflected twice before beating goalkeeper Johny Placide. Morocco sealed the victory in stoppage time when Rahimi’s pressing won the ball before teeing up Gessime Yassine, who finished clinically; the goal was confirmed by VAR.
Morocco now await their round of 16 opponents, who are expected to be the Netherlands, current leaders of Group F and heavy favorites to top their section. The tie is set to take place in Monterrey, representing the Lions’ first knockout fixture of the tournament and the next chapter in what is shaping up as a memorable World Cup campaign for the co-hosting nation.