Morocco has come back after historic goals in Haiti to reach the World Cup final 32 | World Cup 2026

Despite bowing out without a point in their first World Cup since 1974, Haiti took the lead twice against eventual finalists Morocco in 2022.

Morocco overcame a double shock defeat to Haiti to win the World Cup 4-2 in Atlanta, but missed out on top of Group C to Brazil.

Haiti bowed out with their first World Cup goals in 52 years, as Yassine Bounou’s goal and Wilson Isidor’s stunning double put them ahead on Wednesday.

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Achraf Hakimi and Ismael Saibari, with his third goal in as many games at the World Cup, completed it before the end of the half.

Soufiane Rahimi was on the verge of tears when the 30-year-old’s effort found the top corner to put Morocco ahead, before Gessime Yassine rounded off the scoring.

But Morocco missed out on top spot in the group to Brazil on goal difference, meaning they will travel to Monterrey to face either the Netherlands or Japan on Monday.

Despite bowing out without a point, Haiti’s performance in their first World Cup since 1974 has made the impoverished nation proud.

Les Grenadiers had already been withdrawn after their defeat Scotland and Brazilbut the thousands of Haitians who came out of the streets in Atlanta were not discouraged because each attack was carried out with unheard of joy.

Morocco captain Mohamed Ouahbi made four changes to the team that impressed by holding Brazil and beating Scotland in their opening two games, and the Atlas Lions got off to a shaky start.

Haiti’s long wait for an international goal ended just 10 minutes later, when Jean-Kevin Duverne got on the line, and Lenny Joseph dived into the net through Bounou.

Hakimi will continue as Morocco’s captain despite learning the mid-level competition he has to deal with is being prosecuted for rape in France.

The reigning African Footballer of the Year came forward from right back at every turn and was in the right position to equalize on 39 minutes.

In his last game in Haiti, 38-year-old striker Johny Placide only added to Bilal El Khannouss’ strike, and Hakimi had an easy task forcing the ball over the line.

However, within four minutes, Haiti had retaken the lead in spectacular fashion.

Sunderland striker Isidor pounced on a loose ball and let it fly outside the area with a shot that went into the top corner.

Hakimi and Ouahbi appeared to be angry at conceding a second time, but the 2022 World Cup finalists responded before time.

Saibari scored his third goal of the tournament with a cool finish from Hakimi’s low cross.

Brahim Diaz almost gave Morocco a half-time lead when his header clipped the crossbar to end a thrilling first half.

I am Brazil is going to win against Scotland in Miami, Morocco knew that only a solid win would get them to the top of Group C.

Ouahbi started to turn in the last 32 games, while Saibari to Bayern Munich and Diaz of Real Madrid were replaced by more than 20 minutes.

But two of his replacements won the game in Morocco.

Rahimi’s powerful strike from a corner flew into the top corner via the deflection of a desperate Haitian defender.

He then provided an assist by stealing his possession from the Haitian line and crossing for Yassine to roll into the empty net.