Sports
Morocco Overpower Haiti 4-2 to Reach World Cup Last 32
Morocco national football team came from behind twice to defeat Haiti national football team 4-2 in an entertaining Group C clash in Atlanta on Wednesday, securing a place in the World Cup last 32.
Haiti stunned the Atlas Lions by taking the lead after just 10 minutes when a cross from Jean-Kevin Duverne was turned into the net via an unfortunate own goal by goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. It was Haiti’s first World Cup goal since 1974.
Morocco responded through captain Achraf Hakimi, who tapped home after Haiti goalkeeper Johny Placide failed to hold Bilal El Khannouss’s effort. However, Haiti restored their advantage moments later when Wilson Isidor unleashed a stunning long-range strike into the top corner.
The North Africans hit back again before the break, with Ismael Saibari continuing his fine tournament form by scoring his third goal in as many matches after being set up by Hakimi.
Morocco eventually took control in the second half. Substitute Soufiane Rahimi put his side ahead for the first time when his powerful effort from a corner took a deflection and flew into the top corner. Rahimi then created the fourth goal, winning possession near the by-line and crossing for Gessime Yassine to finish into an empty net.
Despite the victory, Morocco finished second in Group C behind Brazil national football team on goal difference and will travel to Monterrey for a likely last-32 meeting with either Netherlands national football team or Japan national football team.
For Haiti, the result confirmed their exit without a point, but their spirited displays and first World Cup goals in more than five decades provided a memorable end to their first appearance at the tournament since 1974.
Hakimi, who was named man of the match, praised those around him for helping him stay focused during the competition, saying he is enjoying one of the best periods of his career as Morocco continue their quest for World Cup glory.
