Morocco rally past Haiti in 6-goal thriller to reach World Cup round of 32

Morocco came from behind twice to defeat Haiti 4-2 in a dramatic Group C encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing a place in the Round of 32 after an entertaining contest at Atlanta Stadium.

The Atlas Lions showed their experience and composure under pressure, overcoming a spirited Haitian side that threatened to produce one of the tournament’s biggest upsets before Morocco’s quality ultimately proved decisive.

Haiti made a dream start to the match, stunning the Moroccan supporters in the 10th minute. A dangerous low cross from Jean-Kévin Duverne caused confusion inside the penalty area, and an attempted clearance ended with the ball deflecting off Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou and into the net for an own goal.

Morocco responded by dominating possession and creating a series of chances. Their persistence paid off in the 39th minute when Achraf Hakimi capitalized on a loose ball after Haitian goalkeeper Johnny Placide failed to clear his lines, firing home the equalizer.

However, Haiti restored their lead just four minutes later. Following a turnover high up the pitch, Wilson Isidor unleashed a powerful long-range effort that flew into the top corner, giving the Caribbean side a 2-1 advantage and sending their fans into celebration.

Morocco refused to be rattled and drew level again deep into first-half stoppage time. Hakimi turned provider with a precise cutback that found Ismael Saibari, who calmly slotted home to make it 2-2 heading into the break.

The second half was more evenly contested until Morocco coach Walid Regragui introduced fresh legs from the bench. The substitutions proved decisive as Morocco gradually took control of the contest.

In the 78th minute, substitute Soufiane Rahimi put Morocco ahead for the first time. After a corner from Hakimi was headed across goal, Rahimi reacted quickest to steer the ball past Placide and make it 3-2.

Morocco sealed victory in the closing stages when another substitute, Gessime Yassine, finished off a move created by Rahimi in the 89th minute. The goal was briefly reviewed by VAR before being confirmed, ending Haiti’s hopes of a comeback.

The victory saw Morocco finish the group stage unbeaten on seven points, level with Brazil. However, Brazil claimed top spot in Group C on goal difference after defeating Scotland in the group’s other fixture.

Morocco advance to the Round of 32 as runners-up and will now await their knockout opponents, with the winners of Group F expected to provide their next challenge. Despite the defeat, Haiti earned praise for a fearless performance that pushed one of the tournament’s strongest teams to the limit.