Morocco showed a top-notch display to top Group F and advanced to the Round of 16 of the World Cup following a 2-1 victory over Canada at the Al Thumama Stadium.
Since 1986 the Atlas Lions have failed to advance to the knockout stage of the tournament, but this time around they bossly qualified to the knockout stage in style on Thursday evening.
Adding to their woes, the Maple Leafs, whose journey is already over, started the match on a worst note after goalkeeper Milan Borjan saw his first touch sloping away from him, while Hakim Ziyech was waiting to rocket the ball into an empty net to break the deadlock in the 4th minute.
Morocco doubled their lead just after 19 minutes later when Hakimi sent in a sweet pass to Youssef En-Nesyri, and the marksman lofted home superbly.
Canada once again put up a spirited performance but unfortunately came away with nothing, as they were punished for their defensive blunders and well chunk of inexperience yet again.
Right in the 40th minute the Maple Leafs lone strike came through an own goal from Naif Aguerd after he deflected off a Sam Adekugbe's cross which went past the outstretched hands of goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Canada ended their World Cup campaign with no points after suffering three defeats in all three games for the second time in as many appearances, while Morocco sit top of the group as they dilly-dally their way through to the much-needed knockout stage.
By: Pascal Nii Gogo Amoah
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