Canada kick off the Round of 16 stage with a tricky tie against Morocco at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Canada overcame South Africa in their Round of 32 tie to qualify for this tie, whilst Morocco edged past Netherlands in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw.
Team News
Canada have no fresh injury concerns to report after their 1-0 victory over South Africa, with Ismael Kone still ruled out for the remainder of the tournament with a leg injury.
Morocco will have a full squad available for selection following their narrow win over Netherlands, although Chadi Riad could be dropped to the bench as a precaution after he suffered a minor knock in that game.
When is Kick-Off?
Canada meet Morocco at NRG Stadium, Houston, USA, at 12pm CDT (6pm BST) on Saturday 4 July, live on ITV1 and ITVX in the UK.
Stat Attack
- Canada lost their only previous World Cup meeting against Morocco by a 2-1 result in the 2022 edition.
- Morocco are yet to lose to Canada in all competitions (W3, D1).
- 35 of Canada’s 117 crosses at this tournament were created by Stephen Eustaquio.
- Six of Morocco’s 26 interceptions in this tournament were made by Neil El Aynaoui.
Prediction
Having needed a last-gasp winner against South Africa to thankfully spare everyone extra time in a lacklustre contest, Canada have to step it up now and bring more creativity and clinical composure if they’re to have any chance of ending Morocco’s run.
Morocco though certainly had to battle past the Netherlands in their Round of 32 tie but with their quality, you have to think that they should bounce back here if can contain Canada’s intense press and continue to be as clinical as they can be.
Canada though are probably going to have to score first because there should be a few goals in this but I think that Morocco will have the edge.
Prediction: Canada 1-2 Morocco
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