By Charity Ebi

Morocco have secured their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a convincing 3-0 victory over co-hosts Canada in the Round of 16.

The Atlas Lions became the first team to book a place in the last eight, producing a disciplined performance before taking control of the contest in the second half.

Midfielder Azzedine Ounahi starred for Morocco with two goals, while Soufiane Rahimi added a late strike to complete the dominant win. Canada showed promise in the opening stages but failed to convert their chances, allowing Morocco to capitalize after the break.

The result also marks another historic milestone for the North African side, who have now reached the World Cup quarter-finals in consecutive tournaments, further strengthening their reputation as one of Africa’s leading football nations.

Morocco will now face France in the quarter-finals after the European side edged Paraguay 1-0 to secure their own place in the last eight. The highly anticipated encounter is scheduled for July 9, with a semi-final ticket at stake.

By Rukevwe Odeh

The Football Association (FA) has reportedly reached a clear position on the future of England head coach Thomas Tuchel as the team prepares for their crucial World Cup knockout clash against Mexico.

Despite growing speculation around his long-term role, the governing body is said to remain supportive of Tuchel and is not considering any immediate changes regardless of the result in the upcoming match.

Tuchel, who recently extended his contract to keep him in charge until Euro 2028, continues to enjoy backing from the FA, who view him as part of a longer-term project aimed at sustained international success.

His new deal was designed to provide stability heading into major tournaments and reduce distractions around managerial uncertainty. However, reports suggest the agreement includes performance-related conditions, meaning the FA still retains flexibility depending on results.

The England coach now faces a challenging test against Mexico in difficult conditions, but his position is believed to be secure for the time being as the FA prioritizes continuity and long-term planning over short-term reaction.

By Rukevwe Odeh

Morocco have secured a place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 in a tense penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra time in Monterrey.

The thrilling encounter appeared to be heading in favour of the Dutch after Cody Gakpo broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute with a composed finish that put the Netherlands within touching distance of qualification.

However, the Atlas Lions produced a dramatic late response as Issa Diop rose highest to head home a stoppage-time equaliser, sending Moroccan supporters into wild celebrations and forcing the contest into extra time.

Despite both sides creating chances during the additional 30 minutes, neither team was able to find the decisive goal, leaving penalties to determine who would advance to the knockout stage.

Morocco showed remarkable composure from the spot, while goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerged as the hero with a crucial save during the shootout. Ismael Saibari then calmly converted the decisive penalty to hand the North Africans a memorable 3-2 victory.

The hard-fought triumph sees Morocco progress to the FIFA World Cup Round of 16, where they will continue their quest for further success on the global stage after eliminating one of Europe’s traditional football powers.