They are back: Morocco qualified for the round of 16 for the first time in 36 years

They added just one point in Russia 2018 and today, four years later, they qualify for the round of 16 as first in group F with seven points, beating runner-up Croatia and an unknown Belgium. Morocco has surprised with a good game and confirmed that it is in Qatar to fulfill its dreams.

This morning against Canada, the African team was extremely superior. Four minutes into the game, an unusual mistake by the goalkeeper of the rival team, Milan Borjan, was taken advantage of by Hakim Ziyech to make it 1-0. The Chelsea footballer has already scored 9 goals in 29 games with his team.

After that first joy that ensured his presence in the next stage of the tournament, Youssef En-Nesyri After an excellent game, he scored the goal from 2 to 0 to seal the game in the first half. In his first World Cup experience, the Sevilla striker showed what a great player he is and how important he is to this team.

With this result and the draw between Croatia and Belgium, Morocco qualified first in this world group. The ‘Lions of the Atlas’ pass the group stage for the second time in 36 years with seven points. They did the same in Mexico 1986, which was so far their best performance in a World Cup.

Qatar 2022 is his sixth participation in World Cups and those led by Walid Regragui will better seek that participation and not by chance. After the absences from Korea-Japan 2002 to Brazil 2014, and their long-awaited return in Russia, this team already has players who play in European leagues and with experience in this competition.

Although the match against Canada ended 2-1, Morocco ended a 660-minute goalless streak in their arc. The last goal they had scored against him was on June 9 in the match against South Africa for the African qualifiers that ended 2-1.

Beyond that, the Moroccans were skilful on the pitch, with solidity and a clear idea of ​​the game. Two wins and a draw is the balance of this team in their first three meetings in Qatar. Now in the round of 16 the story they lived in 1986 where they faced Germany could be repeated, a fact that would happen again in this edition if the Germans pass as second in their group. Otherwise, his other possible rival will be Spain.