Morocco survived an early own goal and a spirited Haiti fightback to secure a 4-2 victory in Group C, with Hakimi and Rahimi starring in a dominant display.
In a match that defied the one-sided statistics, Morocco overcame a bizarre own goal and a stubborn Haiti side to claim a 4-2 victory in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Atlas Lions, who had already impressed with a draw against Brazil and a win over Scotland, showed their depth and resilience at a raucous venue, but not before being given a scare by the tournament's underdogs.
Summary
Morocco dominated possession from the first whistle, but it was Haiti who struck first in the 10th minute when a cross from the left deflected off Morocco goalkeeper Bono and into his own net. The shock goal silenced the Moroccan fans momentarily, but the response was swift and clinical. Achraf Hakimi equalised in the 39th minute with a trademark driving run and finish, before Wilson Isidor restored Haiti's lead just before half-time with a well-taken goal assisted by Jean Duverne.
However, Morocco's quality shone through. Ismael Saibari levelled the scores in first-half stoppage time with a composed finish from Hakimi's pass, and second-half goals from Soufiane Rahimi and Gessime Yassine sealed the win. The final scoreline of 4-2 flattered Haiti, who managed just one shot on target all game, but their fighting spirit was undeniable.
Key Moments
10' Own Goal Bono: A routine cross from the left took a wicked deflection off Bono, wrong-footing the goalkeeper and trickling into the net. It was a cruel start for Morocco, who had dominated the opening exchanges.
39' Hakimi Equalises: The right-back picked up the ball 30 yards from goal, drove past two defenders, and unleashed a low shot into the bottom corner. It was a moment of individual brilliance that lifted the team.
43' Isidor Restores Lead: Haiti struck again against the run of play. Duverne's through ball split the Moroccan defence, and Isidor slotted past Bono with composure. The underdogs were dreaming of an upset.
45' Saibari Levels: Just before the break, Hakimi turned provider, delivering a pinpoint cross for Saibari to volley home. The goal shifted momentum decisively in Morocco's favour.
78' Rahimi Scores: Substitute Chadi Riad played a clever ball into the box, and Rahimi finished with a first-time shot that gave the goalkeeper no chance. It was the goal that broke Haiti's resistance.
89' Yassine Seals It: Rahimi turned assist, slipping a pass to Yassine, who curled a beautiful effort into the far corner. The three points were secure.
Match Analysis
Morocco's 70% possession and 22 total shots told the story of a team that controlled proceedings from start to finish. Their passing accuracy of 89% was exceptional, and they created 3.26 expected goals, highlighting the quality of their chances. However, Haiti's defensive organisation and counter-attacking threat kept the game alive until the final 15 minutes.
Haiti's discipline was admirable, but their lack of attacking output—just five total shots and one on target—ultimately cost them. They committed 18 fouls and picked up three yellow cards, a sign of their frustration as Morocco's technical superiority took hold. The absence of any corners for Haiti underlined their inability to sustain pressure.
Morocco's full-backs were key to their attacking width, with Hakimi scoring and assisting, while the midfield trio of El Khannouss, Saibari, and Rahimi controlled the tempo. The introduction of Riad added fresh energy, and his assist for Rahimi's goal was a moment of quality that decided the match.
Player Performances
Bilal El Khannouss (Morocco) – 8.9 rating: The playmaker was at the heart of everything good for Morocco. His two shots on target and three key passes were instrumental in creating chances. He dictated the tempo and showed maturity beyond his years.
Soufiane Rahimi (Morocco) – 8.2 rating: A goal and an assist from the forward, who grew into the game after a quiet first half. His movement and finishing were clinical when it mattered most.
Wilson Isidor (Haiti) – 7.7 rating: The striker took his goal superbly and was a constant nuisance for the Moroccan defence. He had limited service but made the most of it.
Achraf Hakimi (Morocco) – 7.6 rating: A goal and an assist from right-back, showcasing his attacking prowess. Defensively, he was solid, though he was caught out for Haiti's second goal.
Ismael Saibari (Morocco) – 7.3 rating: Scored the crucial equaliser just before half-time and was a threat from midfield. His energy and pressing set the tone.
Gessime Yassine (Morocco) – 7.3 rating: Came off the bench to score a beautiful goal, showing depth in Morocco's squad.
Key Stats
- Possession: Morocco 70% – 30% Haiti
- Total Shots: 22 (11 on target) vs 5 (1 on target)
- Expected Goals: 3.26 vs 0.52
- Corner Kicks: 9 vs 0
- Fouls: 10 vs 18
- Goalkeeper Saves: 1 vs 8
- Pass Accuracy: 89% vs 80%
The statistics paint a clear picture of Morocco's dominance. Haiti's goalkeeper made eight saves to keep the scoreline respectable, while Bono had a quiet afternoon despite the two goals conceded.
What This Means
Morocco's win moves them to seven points from three games, securing second place in Group C with a +3 goal difference. They remain unbeaten, having drawn with Brazil and beaten Scotland, and will head into the knockout stages with confidence. For Haiti, it's a third straight defeat, ending their World Cup campaign without a point. They can hold their heads high for their performance in this match, but ultimately, the gulf in class was too wide.
The result also confirms Brazil's progression as group winners, with Morocco finishing as runners-up. The Atlas Lions will now await their Round of 16 opponent, likely a group winner from another section.
What Happens Next
Morocco will prepare for a knockout tie, where they will face the winner of one of the other groups. Their recent form—two wins and a draw—suggests they are a dangerous side for any opponent. Haiti, meanwhile, will return home after a valiant but ultimately unsuccessful campaign. They can take pride in their fighting spirit, but will need to improve their attacking output to compete at this level in future.
For more on the tournament, check the fixtures and standings pages.
