football 24 June 2026 Nile Post
Morocco Secures Knockout Stage Berth After Thrilling Win Over Haiti
Morocco secured their place in the World Cup knockout stages by defeating Haiti 3-2 in a dramatic encounter. Despite Haiti's spirited performance and leading twice, Morocco's late goals sealed their advancement as group runners-up. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/351351/morocco-beat-haiti-to-progress-as-runners-up
In a vibrant clash at Atlanta’s stadium, Morocco clinched a dramatic 3-2 victory over Haiti, securing their passage to the World Cup’s last 32.
The match, a historic first between the two nations, was electrifying from the start, with both sets of fans creating an exceptional atmosphere. Haiti, though already eliminated, showed immense spirit.
They took an early lead in the 10th minute. A flicked finish by Lenny Joseph deflected off Morocco’s goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou, for an own goal, giving Haiti their first World Cup goal in over 50 years. However, Morocco responded swiftly. Achraf Hakimi equalized in the 39th minute after a shot from Brahim Diaz was mishparried by the Haitian keeper.
Haiti, ranked 83rd in the world, then stunned Morocco just before halftime when striker Wilson Isidor struck a spectacular goal from 25 yards out. Their lead was short-lived, though, as Ismael Saibari, scoring his third tournament goal, leveled the score for Morocco in first-half stoppage time.
The decisive moment came late in the second half. Substitute Soufiane Rahimi scored with 12 minutes remaining, his shot deflecting in. Gessime Yassine then added a third for Morocco in the final minute, confirmed by VAR, to seal a hard-fought win.
Despite the victory, Morocco finished second in Group C, as Brazil’s win over Scotland meant they topped the group. Morocco will now face either the Netherlands, Japan, or Sweden in their next knockout stage fixture.
Haiti departs the tournament with pride, having scored multiple goals and shown remarkable resilience against established nations.
Source: Nile Post