Morocco match Nigeria World Cup feat, roar past Canada into World Cup last 16

Morocco matched a World Cup record for an African country after beating Canada 2-1 to power into the last 16 of the World Cup for the first time in 36 years.

The Atlas Lions have now become the second African side after Nigeria in 1998 to finish top of their group.

They have also joined Nigeria, Senegal and Ghana as the African countries who have made it to the knockout stage in more than one edition.

Goals from Hakim Ziyech and Youssef En-Nesyri were all the North Africans needed to seal top spot and a place in the round of 16.

The Moroccans grabbed the lead after only four minutes in front of 43,102 fans at the Al Thumama Stadium.

Canada captain and goalkeeper Milan Borjan raced off his line to clear an underhit backpass from Steven Vitoria, but could only watch in horror as the ball fell to Ziyech.

The Chelsea star seized the opportunity ruthlessly, coolly lifting a finish over the stranded Borjan into the empty net.

That early setback winded Canada, who struggled to gain any sort of a foothold against a rampant Morocco, who were soon 2-0 up.

Right-back Achraf Hakimi’s long ball caught the Canadian defence napping and En-Nesyri darted in behind before smashing home a finish at the near post to beat Borjan.

Canada pulled a goal back on a rare foray forward five minutes from half-time when defender Sam Adekugbe skipped clear down the left and rifled in a low cross.

Defender Nayef Aguerd stuck a leg out and the ball deflected into the net past Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.