Ounahi's Brace Powers Morocco to 3-0 Victory Over Canada
Morocco secured a 3-0 victory over Canada in the FIFA World Cup, with midfielder Azzedine Ounahi scoring two goals. The first goal came in the 50th minute, a precise shot that navigated through a crowded penalty area and beat Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau. Ounahi added a second goal later in the match, sealing the win for Morocco.
Despite the scoreline, Canada had several opportunities. The team registered five shots, including a chance that should have been converted by Tani Oluwaseyi. Morocco, by contrast, had only one previous attempt before Ounahi's opener, a speculative strike from Soufiane Rahimi.
Ounahi's performance was notable not only for his goals but also for his work rate. He covered significant distance on the pitch and contributed defensively, reflecting his earlier statement that "our mindset made the difference" in Morocco's World Cup campaign.
The match took place against the backdrop of social issues in Morocco. The country is investing heavily in infrastructure ahead of co-hosting the 2030 World Cup, with projects worth an estimated $190 billion. However, this investment has drawn criticism amid high youth unemployment and a struggling public healthcare system. In September 2025, protests erupted following the deaths of eight pregnant women in public hospitals, with demonstrators asking why funds were available for stadiums but not for healthcare.
Ounahi was the first Moroccan international to publicly express solidarity with the protesters, a move that further endeared him to fans. He had already become a national icon after the 2022 World Cup, where his performances drew praise from Spain's coach Luis Enrique.
In Saturday's match, Canada's coach Jesse Marsch argued that his team had performed well, with more shots, corners, and expected goals. "I would rather be us than them," he said, suggesting that on another day Canada would have won. Nonetheless, Ounahi's goals proved decisive, and Morocco's defensive discipline ensured the clean sheet.
