Morocco are out to bag a win as they tackle Canada in their last 2022 FIFA World Cup F match on Thursday afternoon.
The North Africans will be hoping to secure their second win in the group to force their way into the Last 16, but they are aware it will not be easy.
Morocco opened their participation at the tournament with a disappointing 0-0 draw against Croatia, but were back to winning ways when they won 2-0 against Belgium.
On the log standings, they now sit second with four points from the two matches and their mission is to stun the North American nation.
Coming to the Reds , Canada have had a lukewarm showing at the global tournament where they fell 1-0 to Belgium in the first match.
They failed to bounce back and were walloped 4-1 by Croatia last on week. Alphonse Davies scored their lone goal in the second minute of the match.
Meeting the Moroccans presents a challenge and a stiff test for the Reds as they have been questioned when it comes to consistency.
The Atlas Lions need a victory or a draw in the game against Canada, and also could reach the round of 16 with a defeat depending on the result of Belgium’s match with Croatia.
However, Morocco coach Walid Regragui maintains his charges must stay fully focussed against a team intent on finishing the tournament on a positive note as Canada look ahead to co-hosting the 2026 World Cup.
“We know that we are coming up against a team which has got nothing to lose as they are already eliminated and will be out to hold their heads up high,” said Regragui, who replaced Vahid Halilhodzic as Morocco head coach just three months ago.
“But we also have a lot to get out of the game. We are motivated and are preparing for a difficult game.”
In recent times, Canadian football occasionally produces surprises, perhaps reflecting a tug of war between a proud past and frustrating present.
John Herdman’s charges are however determined win the last game during the World Cup group phase.
The Reds showed physical strength and good football techniques but that was not enough to secure a win against their first rivals.
Morocco and Canada have met once previously, a 4-0 victory by the Atlas Lions in a 2016 friendly as Hakim Ziyech scored twice.
