Morocco fought back twice before scoring two late goals to secure a thrilling 4-2 victory over Haiti and book their place in the FIFA World Cup last 32.
Soufiane Rahimi and Gessime Yassine struck in the closing stages to deny Haiti a historic first-ever World Cup point in an entertaining Group C clash in Atlanta.
The Atlas Lions responded to Haiti’s resilience through goals from Achraf Hakimi and Ismael Saibari before Rahimi put Morocco ahead with 12 minutes remaining. Yassine then sealed the victory in the final minute after a VAR review confirmed the ball had remained in play.
Despite the win, Morocco were unable to finish top of Group C as Brazil secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Scotland. The 2022 World Cup semi-finalists finished second in the group and will now face either the Netherlands, Japan or Sweden in the last 32.
Haiti, already eliminated after defeats against Scotland and Brazil, produced a spirited performance and took the lead twice. The Caribbean side opened the scoring in the 10th minute when a flick from Lenny Joseph deflected off Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou and into the net. The goal was officially recorded as an own goal.
Morocco equalized in the 39th minute through Hakimi after Haiti goalkeeper Johny Placide failed to fully stop Brahim Diaz’s effort.
Haiti restored their lead just before halftime when striker Wilson Isidor produced a stunning long-range strike from 25 yards that flew into the top corner. However, Morocco responded immediately as Saibari scored in first-half stoppage time following a well-worked move involving Hakimi.
Placide made a number of crucial saves to keep Haiti in the contest, but he was unable to prevent substitute Rahimi’s deflected effort from finding the net in the 78th minute. Yassine added Morocco’s fourth goal moments before full-time to complete the comeback.
The match was played in front of a vibrant crowd, with supporters from both nations creating a memorable atmosphere throughout the contest.
With the result, Haiti finish bottom of Group C and exit the tournament, while Morocco advance to the knockout stage where they will play their Round of 32 match at Estadio Monterrey in Mexico on June 30.
