Morocco Become First African Nation to Reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32

Morocco made history on Thursday by becoming the first African team to secure qualification for the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Haiti 4-2 in their final Group C encounter.

The Atlas Lions were forced to come from behind after an unfortunate own goal from goalkeeper Yassine Bounou handed Haiti an early lead. However, Captain Achraf Hakimi quickly restored parity to keep Morocco on track.

Haiti regained the advantage through Wilson Isidor, but Morocco responded once again before the break as Ismael Saibari found the net to make it 2-2.

The North Africans took full control in the second half, with Soufiane Rahimi and Gessime Yassine both getting on the scoresheet to complete an impressive comeback and seal all three points.

Morocco finished second in Group C behind Brazil, who secured top spot with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Scotland in the group's other fixture.