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Canada vs Morocco LIVE: World Cup 2022 result, final score and reaction as Atlas Lions top Group F

Canada vs Morocco LIVE: World Cup 2022 result, final score and reaction as Atlas Lions top Group F

An impassioned Moroccan team clinched a spot in the last 16 of the World Cup for the first time since 1986 by defeating the already-eliminated Canadians 2-1 on Thursday, mercilessly capitalising on their opponents blunders.

Morocco, who needed a win or a draw in their final Group F match to reach the knockout rounds, took advantage of a weak clearance by goalkeeper Milan Borjan that landed on the foot of Hakim Ziyech. Cheered on by a boisterous crowd of Moroccan fans, midfielder Ziyech effortlessly lobbed the ball over the stranded goalkeeper to open scoring in the fourth minute. Borjan had been placed in an unenviable position by central defender Steven Vitoria, whose weak back pass forced the goalkeeper to race Moroccan forward Youssef En-Nesyri to the ball.

En-Nesyri remained dangerous throughout the first half, doubling Morocco‘s lead in the 23rd minute when he ran onto a long ball from Achraf Hakimi and beat Borjan at the near post. En-Nesyri also thumped a volley into the Canadian net during stoppage time in the first half but that goal was ruled offside.

With Croatia drawing with Belgium in the other Group F game, Morocco finish first in the group and will face the second-place finishers in Group E, which is made up of Japan, Spain, Germany and Costa Rica. Moroccan defender Nayef Aguerd put Canada on the scoreboard with an own goal, the first of this World Cup, by accidentally flicking a cross by Sam Adekugbe past his own goalkeeper Yassine Bounou in the 40th minute. Canada, who are exiting their first World Cup since 1986 without a win, automatically qualify for the 2026 tournament as co-hosts along with the United States and Mexico.

Relive all the action with our live blog below:

Canada vs Morocco

  • Morocco top World Cup Group F after Ziyech and En-Nesyri goals down Canada

  • REPORT: Atlas Lions create history by making last 16 for second time in history

  • 72’ OFF THE BAR! Hutchinson thumps a header off the woodwork and it bounces down and onto the line (CAN 1-2 MOR)

  • 45+3’ NO GOAL! En-Nesyri celebrates after a fine finish, but it’s offside (CAN 1-2 MOR)

  • 40’ GOAL! Aguerd deflects into his own net to give Canada life (CAN 1-2 MOR)

  • 24’ GOAL! En-Nesyri races in on goal and fires an emphatic finish past Borjan (CAN 0-2 MOR)

  • 15’ CHANCE! Larin feeds Buchanan at the back post, but he can’t reach the ball with Bono out of goal (CAN 0-1 MOR)

  • 4’ GOAL! Ziyech pounces on Borjan howler to chip into empty net (CAN 0-1 MOR)

  • RELIVE THE ACTION: Croatia hold on in Belgium stalemate to finish second in Group F

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain - MATCH REPORT

21:29 , Kieran Jackson

By Miguel Delaney at the Khalifa International Stadium

The ultimate lost cause, a win of historic proportions. A game of literal inches, a night of monumental drama. One former World Cup winner is out. Another no longer look like potential champions. Japan, against that, have emerged as one of the stories and revelations of this tournament.

Kaoru Mitoma’s heroic chasing of a ball that seemed certain to go out of play saw Ao Tanaka score a goal for the ages on another night that will reverberate through football history. It didn’t just mean Japan did to Spain what they did to Germany with another 2-1 comeback. It meant they finished ahead of both in the group to subject Germany to the humiliation of elimination and Spain to the embarrassment of finishing second after having almost everything their own way.

They now look flawed and vulnerable rather than imperious and victorious, as well as pathetically dependent on a German favour.

It was, in truth, a night when justice was done after all sorts of trials and errors. Everyone got what they deserved. Japan are full value as group winners, since they were the one side who gave everything they have. Spain did not deserve to win either the game or the group given how arrogantly complacent they became in their own quality. Germany couldn’t beat Japan and could barely muster a victory against Costa Rica.

It ended up being what Spain required. They no longer look anything close to favourites. An irony, however, is they arguably have a more forgiving path through. They shouldn’t take Morocco too lightly on this evidence, though. Japan will meanwhile fancy facing anyone as they take on Croatia.

Japan stun Spain with thrilling comeback to snatch top spot

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

21:14 , Kieran Jackson

So - Germany are out, for the second World Cup running!

Extraordinary! Since winning it in 2014, they haven’t reached the knockout-stages!

By Rich Jolly in Doha

Germany crash out of World Cup despite victory over Costa Rica

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:57 , Kieran Jackson

The Japanese squad sprint on to the pitch in celebration - they cannot believe it!

It’s over in the other game: Costa Rica 2-4 Germany. But Germany are out due to Spain’s superior goal-difference!

Japan have done it again! They lost to Costa Rica... but they’ve beaten Germany and Spain!

What a World Cup group-stage this has been so far!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:54 , Kieran Jackson

FULL-TIME! Japan have done it! They have beaten Spain - and top Group E!

And despite Germmany beating Costa Rica... they are out! Spain are through in second place.

Wow. Just wow.

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:52 , Kieran Jackson

90+6 mins: Dani Olmo loses patience and shoots outside the box - but he drags it well wide!

Japan are almost there! Germany on the verge of exiting the World Cup...

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:50 , Kieran Jackson

90+4 mins: Japan’s Morita down with cramp - he’s continuing though!

Spain keeping the ball... but aren’t fashioning any chances! Japan are rock solid in their shape!

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:48 , Kieran Jackson

90 mins: Seven minutes of added time!

Seven huge minutes for Japan! Can they hold on for a remarkable top spot?!

And Germany are praying for a Spain goal so they can go through!

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:47 , Kieran Jackson

89 mins: That was close - x2!

Asensio shoots from long-range, Gonda parries, but Japan just clear!

Then Olmo is played in from Torres - but he shoots straight at Gonda! Two big chances in the space of a minute!

Germany have a fourth against Costa Rica... but they need Spain to score here!

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:43 , Kieran Jackson

87 mins: Whisper it quietly - Spain look a bit out of ideas here. Japan deep, but resilient.

Meanwhile, Germany have taken the lead against Costa Rica - Havertz again - so Spain now only through ahead of Germany due to goal-difference!

Change for Japan: Endo comes on for Kamada.

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:41 , Kieran Jackson

84 mins: Asano looks like he’s clear - but Spain manage to get back to cover!

Dani Carvajal does well!

Spain risking a lot of men forward now....

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:39 , Kieran Jackson

82 mins: Fati can’t quite win a corner on the far side and it’s a goal-kick...

Around 10 or so minutes to go - can Japan hold on for top spot?! Bringing off Morata looks an odd choice right now by Luis Enrique!

Spain are currently also going through in second... but only because Costa Rica aren’t beating Germany. 2-2 currently in that one...

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:35 , Kieran Jackson

78 mins: Japan have got 11 men behind the ball and Spain, for their ball retention, struggling to fashion a meaningful chance right now!

Meanwhile, how about this picture of Japan’s second goal - in or out?! It has to be the WHOLE ball.

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:32 , Kieran Jackson

76 mins: Japan holding firm here - they’re 15 minutes or so away from going through as group winners!

Spain with all the ball - don’t take your eyes off this!

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:30 , Kieran Jackson

73 mins: Spain still probing rather slowly - someone needs to tell them that they need a goal?!

But they don’t now? Germany equalise - Kai Havertz the scorer - so Spain are now going through!

ARE YOU KEEPING UP?!

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:26 , Kieran Jackson

70 mins: Big chance for Asano to make it 3-1!

Japan on the counter-attack - the substitute is fed in behind but can’t get a firm contact on the cross!

But... Costa Rica have scored again - they lead Germany! So, as it stands, Spain are now heading out!

Japan and Costa Rica going through at the moment!

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:24 , Kieran Jackson

66 mins: Japan look like a team reborn!

Spain are back in control of possession but are struggling to find a way through this Japanese defence.

Alba and Fati coming on for Spain; Balde and Gavi come off.

For Japan: Tomiyasu (of Arsenal) comes on for Kamada.

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:22 , Kieran Jackson

Here’s that second Japan goal - did it cross the line?!

World Cup 2022: Costa Rica 1-1 Germany

20:21 , Kieran Jackson

Costa Rica are equalised! Germany going out as it stands - with Japan through as group winners just ahead of Spain!

What a turnaround early in the second-half in both games.

Costa Rica vs Germany LIVE: World Cup 2022 latest updates

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain

20:19 , Kieran Jackson

60 mins: Changes galore.

Spain make a double sub: Morata and Williams OFF; Asensio and Torres ON.

Japan bring on Asano for Maeda.

WHAT HAS HAPPENED IN THIS GAME?!

World Cup 2022: Japan 2-1 Spain (Tanaka, 51)

20:11 , Kieran Jackson

53 mins: Oh my - CAN YOU BELIEVE THIS?!

Japan are ahead - after a lengthy VAR check!

Ao Tanaka’s goal is given! He converts from a cross from close-range, but was the ball kept in play?! The goal is given!

Original replays made it seem the ball was out!

But what a turnaround here!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: Japan 1-1 Spain (Doan 48’)

20:04 , Kieran Jackson

GOAL! Ristu Doan has scored with virtually his first touch!

It’s a powerful left-foot strike from the midfielder and Simon dives to his left - but can’t save it!

He should save it. But out of nothing, Japan are level!

As it stands, Germany are out!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-1 Spain

20:03 , Kieran Jackson

Back underway in the second-half!

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-1 Spain

20:02 , Kieran Jackson

The players are back out for the second-half - but there has been a few changes!

Dani Carvajal has come on for Cesar Azpilicueta at right-back for Spain.

For Japan: Nagatomo and Kubo OFF; Doan and Mitoma ON.

Bold from Japan boss Hajime Moriyasu!

World Cup 2022: Costa Rica 0-1 Germany

19:56 , Kieran Jackson

In the other game in Group E, Germany have the advantage over Costa Rica.

Follow our live blog below for updates:

Costa Rica vs Germany LIVE: World Cup 2022 latest updates

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-1 Spain

19:48 , Kieran Jackson

HALF-TIME: Alvaro Morata’s 11th minute header is the difference between the two teams - and Spain have been completely dominant at the Khalifa International Stadium!

And yet... Japan are still in this. Will they open up more as the second-half progresses? Still in the balance this one!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-1 Spain

19:45 , Kieran Jackson

45 mins: That’s now the whole back three booked for Japan now - Maya Yoshida gets yellow as he closes in behind Morata.

Wrong decision, barely touches him. Tight-rope for Japan’s backline now...

One minute of added time here.

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-1 Spain

19:44 , Kieran Jackson

43 mins: Another booking for Japan - this one more justified as Shogo Taniguchi clatters into Gavi very late.

Japan needing half-time...

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-1 Spain

19:39 , Kieran Jackson

39 mins: Something of a harsh yellow card for Japan defender Kou Itakura, as he just catches Pedri.

He’ll miss the last-16 game - if Japan get there.

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-1 Spain

19:35 , Kieran Jackson

35 mins: Nervy moment for Spain keeper Unai Simon as he’s closed down by Maeda, but he JUST about gets his pass away to Azpilicueta on the right.

That was a close run thing!

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-1 Spain

19:30 , Kieran Jackson

30 mins: Spain just supreme at keeping the ball at the moment - it almost mirrors a training session does this match so far.

That being said, for all of Spain’s domination, it’s still only 1-0. Japan only need a moment...

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-1 Spain

19:25 , Kieran Jackson

25 mins: Great block from Japan defender Kou Itakura to block Dani Olmo squeezing the ball in at the near post!

Japan just need to keep Spain within arm’s length right now...

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-1 Spain

19:23 , Kieran Jackson

23 mins: Death by a hundred passes? Something like that.

Spain just toying a little bit with Japan here. Gavi sets up Morata in behind but his shot is straight at Gonda.

Meanwhile, here’s Morata’s goal!

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-1 Spain

19:16 , Kieran Jackson

17 mins: Spain are doing their thing - keeping the ball effortlessly and probing, slowly.

Japan can’t get their foot on the ball at the moment, really struggling. They’re shaken.

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-1 Spain (Morata 11’)

19:11 , Kieran Jackson

11 mins: Spain have the breakthrough!

It’s Cesar Azpilicueta’s cross which is inch-perfect for Alvaro Morata to head home from close range - no chance for Gonda!

Lovely build-up from Spain, a perfect start!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-0 Spain

19:09 , Kieran Jackson

9 mins: Few chances early on here!

Balde’s cross is straight on Morata’s head but it’s straight at Japan keeper Gonda!

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-0 Spain

19:08 , Kieran Jackson

8 mins: Nightmare few minutes for Busquets!

He gives the ball away just outside his own penalty area but Japan can’t take full advantage, as Junya Ito shoots from a narrow angle into the side-netting!

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-0 Spain

19:07 , Kieran Jackson

7 mins: First look at Nico Williams on the right-hand side - his cross is only half-cleared to captain Sergio Busquets on the edge of the box, but his left-foot shot is high and wide!

Unsurprisingly, he never looked like scoring!

World Cup 2022: Japan 0-0 Spain

19:05 , Kieran Jackson

5 mins: As you might suspect, Spain dominant with the ball early on - with Japan setting up with a back-five.

Yet the Japanese have the first quick attack, but it’s quickly cleared by Spain’s Pau Torres.

World Cup 2022: Japan vs Spain

19:01 , Kieran Jackson

KICK-OFF: We’re underway at the Khalifa International Stadium!

Japan in blue shirts and white shorts, with Spain in their usual all-red.

World Cup 2022: Japan vs Spain - a reminder of the starting XIs!

18:58 , Kieran Jackson

Japan: Shuichi Gonda, Shogo Taniguchi, Ko Itakura, Yuto Nagatomo, Takefusa Kubo, Hidemasa Morita, Junya Ito, Daichi Kamada, Ao Tanaka, Maya Yoshida, Daizen Maeda

Spain: Unai Simon, Cesar Azpilicueta, Pau Torres, Sergio Busquets, Alvaro Morata, Gavi, Nico Williams, Alejandro Balde, Rodri, Dani Olmo, Pedri

World Cup 2022: Japan vs Spain

18:55 , Kieran Jackson

The players are out at the Khalifa International Stadium for this crucial Group E decider!

Time for the national anthems!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: Costa Rica vs Germany

18:53 , Kieran Jackson

If you want to follow the action from Costa Rica vs Germany - a game the Germans have to win to progress - you can with our live blog below:

Costa Rica vs Germany LIVE: World Cup 2022 latest updates

World Cup 2022: Japan vs Spain

18:50 , Kieran Jackson

The players are back in from their warm-ups - just 10 minutes away from kick-off at the Khalifa International Stadium!

Luis Enrique’s Furia Roja were hit back by Germany last time out, but are still in control and poised to finish first if they can beat Japan, who were stunned by Costa Rica and must win here to stand a chance of making the last 16.

The 2010 champions need a point to guarantee their qualification for the knockout-phase, while half-an-eye will be on the other match in Group E between Costa Rica and Germany!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

18:40 , Kieran Jackson

Luis Enrique, speaking at his press conference yesterday...

“Football is a show, like if you went to the theatre. Fans want to see goals, entertainment. That’s how I interpret football. Other coaches don’t share this, that’s OK, but it’s what I like. We don’t focus on the result, we focus on our path. It’s good vibes, optimism and joy. Maybe it’s excessive optimism.

“If anything goes wrong and I am fired then that’s OK. But if this way fills my players with optimism, then I’m satisfied with it. Until I am proven wrong we have to keep thinking we are the best team and will play seven matches and win. It may not be true but that’s our goal.

“Imagine we think runner-up is better and we have reached the 90th minute with a good 0-0 draw but then five seconds from full time, Costa Rica and Japan both score. In the last 15 seconds, we would be out! Or Germany could win 5-0. Just imagine!

“We are here to win seven matches and win the group. It could be Brazil in the quarters but OK. Let’s play Brazil. At elite level, we cannot speculate. Avoiding Brazil may be easier? Easier in football? What is that? To win a World Cup you have to beat everyone who comes your way. That’s your goal. It’s soon all or nothing. Winner goes home. That’s the greatness of football.”

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: Japan vs Spain

18:27 , Kieran Jackson

Spain 1-1 Germany - match report

By Miguel Delaney at the Al Bayt Stadium

A draw that might just show why a burgeoning Spain will fall short of winning this World Cup, and prevent Germany from falling out of it. It’s that fine a line, from an enthralling 1-1 draw.

Hansi Flick’s side need much more than that in their next game against Costa Rica, and also a favour off Spain against Japan, but they should feel considerable relief here. They have survived. They have persevered. It is remarkable to think that these sides went into this World Cup as equals, and that this game ended level. Spain were so much the better side, as evidenced by their positions in the group. But Luis Enrique’s team also have flaws, as evidenced by the way they gave this win up.

Flick and Niclas Fullkrug do deserve credit there. They didn’t exactly display Spain’s class but they did show considerable resilience. It can’t be discounted how badly they needed this, even if Costa Rica’s win over Japan took some of the edge off the game, and they still need to drastically improve.

Germany cling on to World Cup hopes and expose Spain’s flaws with battling draw

World Cup 2022: Japan vs Spain

18:19 , Kieran Jackson

Japan 0-1 Costa Rica - match report

By Mark Critchley at the Al-Rayyan Stadium

Japan arrived in Qatar hoping to atone for their most infamous of visits to this country, when a stoppage-time equaliser in a 2-2 draw with Iraq on neutral ground during the qualifiers for the 1994 World Cup denied them their first-ever place at a finals. There have been seven consecutive qualifications since – a remarkable rise to becoming an established footballing nation – but if they leave without reaching the knockout stages of this tournament, they will be left to lament this defeat as their new ‘Tragedy of Doha’.

After their exceptional win in the first round of group games, not to mention Costa Rica’s 7-0 defeat, this was a chance for Japan to all but secure a place in the last-16 and pile pressure on Germany before their meeting with Spain later this evening. Instead, Keysher Fuller’s 81st-minute winner has turned Group E on its head and produced a plausible scenario where all four sides go into the final round level on points.

Hajime Moriyasu may try to look on the bright side and philosophise that three points after two games is par for the course. But in the cold reality of a World Cup, while witnessing Moriyasu and his players bow apologetically to their supporters at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, the only conclusion to be drawn from a scrappy contest with a sensational finish is that his side have wasted the golden opportunity that beating Germany presented.

Costa Rica, meanwhile, are still just about alive thanks to Fuller. The right-back’s looped, slightly mishit shot only just made it through goalkeeper Shuichi Gonda’s outstretched palm. The chance had only come his way because Yeltsin Tejeda capitalised on a mistake by Hidemasa Morita. It was an ugly goal to win an uglier game but just about what Luis Fernando Suarez’s side deserved for a disciplined gameplan.

Costa Rica earn redemption as Japan pluck another tragedy from jaws of triumph

World Cup 2022: Japan vs Spain

18:05 , Kieran Jackson

Spain boss Luis Enrique remembers late daughter on ‘special day’ at World Cup

Spain coach Luis Enrique said it was a “special day” after his team’s 1-1 draw with Germany at the World Cup on Sunday.

But it had nothing to do with football.

Luis Enrique said Sunday would have been the 13th birthday of his daughter, Xana Martínez, who died three years ago of a rare form of bone cancer.

“It was a special day for me and my family,” Luis Enrique said. “Obviously we don’t have our daughter with us physically anymore, but she is still present every day. We remember her a lot, we laugh and think about how she would act in each situation that we experience.”

He had earlier posted a video on Instagram in which he said that “not only we play against Germany today, but Xanita would have turned 13.” He wished her “a good day” wherever she was right now.

“This is how life works,” he said after the match. “It’s not only about beautiful things and finding happiness, it’s about knowing how to manage these moments.”

Luis Enrique remembers late daughter on ‘special day’ at World Cup

World Cup 2022: Japan vs Spain - TEAM NEWS

17:47 , Kieran Jackson

Japan: Shuichi Gonda, Shogo Taniguchi, Ko Itakura, Yuto Nagatomo, Takefusa Kubo, Hidemasa Morita, Junya Ito, Daichi Kamada, Ao Tanaka, Maya Yoshida, Daizen Maeda

Spain: Unai Simon, Cesar Azpilicueta, Pau Torres, Sergio Busquets, Alvaro Morata, Gavi, Nico Williams, Alejandro Balde, Rodri, Dani Olmo, Pedri

World Cup 2022: Japan vs Spain

17:45 , Kieran Jackson

Spain are looking to clinch top spot in Group E at the 2022 World Cup with a win against Japan this evening.

Luis Enrique’s Furia Roja were hit back by Germany last time out, but are still in control and poised to finish first if they can beat Japan, who were stunned by Costa Rica and must win here to stand a chance of making the last 16.

The 2010 champions need a point to guarantee their qualification for the knockout-phase, while half-an-eye will be on the other match in Group E between Costa Rica and Germany.

“There was a strange feeling in the changing room because we had the opportunity to beat Germany and we let it slip through our hands and that was a shame - but we have to think that we are at the top of the so-called Group of Death and we have to stay positive,” Spain boss Luis Enrique said ahead of the match.

Kick-off is at 7pm - team news coming right up!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

Canada 1-2 Morocco - MATCH REPORT

17:26 , Kieran Jackson

By Peter Hall in Doha

Morocco were made to work hard for it by a spirited Canada, but two first-half goals were enough to ensure they qualify for the World Cup last 16 for only the second time in history following a 2-1 victory.

On a high from their heroic victory over Belgium in their last match, one of the most famous wins in African sporting history, Morocco are the second team from the continent to reach the knockout stages after Senegal booked a date with England, and incredibly progress as group winners.

Belgium’s miserable month ended in further catastrophe as their failure to beat Croatia means one of the pre-tournament favourites bows out, and Morocco become the first African team to reach the World Cup knockouts as group winners since Nigeria in 1998. But they were made to work mightily hard for their success by a Canada side who finish pointless, despite their best efforts.

After a raucous rendition of the Moroccan national anthem in the Al Thumama Stadium that could not have failed to have roused the Arab nation from any lingering lethargy, Canada were immediately put on the back foot.

What the Canadians needed to do if they were going to have any chance of their first ever World Cup match was just to steady the ship, not let in any early goals, avoiding making mistakes where possible.

Morocco deny spirited Canada to create World Cup history after topping Group F

Canada 1-2 Morocco

17:15 , Kieran Jackson

Here’s how close Canada came to equalising through Atiba Hutchinson!

Canada 1-2 Morocco

17:00 , Kieran Jackson

Most of the Morocco players are crying their eyes out here! It’s their first appearance in the knockout phase of the World Cup since 1986!

They will play the runners-up of Group E - which invovles Spain, Germany, Japan and Costa Rica and concludes tonight - at the Education City Stadium on Tuesday at 3pm (GMT).

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:57 , Kieran Jackson

Joyous scenes for Morocco at the Al Thumama Stadium - the Morocco players are celebrating like they’ve won the whole thing!

Frankly, why shouldn’t they?!

Canada have caught the eye - but go home with three losses to their name.

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:55 , Kieran Jackson

FULL-TIME: The Morocco substitutes sprint onto the pitch in celebration - they have done it!

Morocco finish top of Group F! Croatia come second, Belgium are out.

Canada end up pointless.

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:54 , Kieran Jackson

90+4 mins: Celebrations on the Morocco bench as they hear that Croatia and Belgium has finished goalless!

Belgium are out! Morocco about to finish top...

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:53 , Kieran Jackson

90+2 mins: Terrible corner doesn’t beat the first man!

Borjan than screws up again with his feet in midfield... but Davies sprints back to cover for his goalkeeper!

Morocco look to be there.

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:52 , Kieran Jackson

90 mins: Four minutes of added time here!

Canada have pushed and pushed and pushed in this second-half!

Borjan is up for Davies’ corner...

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:48 , Kieran Jackson

87 mins: What’s Morocco keeper Bono doing!

Just outside the box, he chests the ball before grabbing it in his box - with Canada players onrushing!

That was a close run thing!

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:46 , Kieran Jackson

84 mins: Booking for Vitoria, for an arm to the face of Morocco’s Hamdallah.

That’s been coming.

Meanwhile, Morocco make their final change: Hakimi comes off again, with Jabrane replacing him.

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:43 , Kieran Jackson

83 mins: Davies whips in a corner for Canada but Jamieson gets too much on his header at the near post, with the ball flying over.

With Croatia and Belgium still goalless, Morocco are going through as group winners... as it stands!

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:41 , Kieran Jackson

82 mins: Morocco counter quickly but sub Abderrazak Hamdallah takes too long to make a decision! Dispossessed by Hutchinson when he had options either side of him!

Will Morocco live to regret that?!

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:39 , Kieran Jackson

80 mins: Moroccan fans doing the Icelandic clap, creating a thunderous atmosphere around the stadium.

10 to go. Canada still dominating. Morocco are deep, very deep...

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:37 , Kieran Jackson

76 mins: Hoilett makes way for Wotherspoon for Canada.

Another double sub for Morocco too: Ziyech and Ounahi OFF; Hamdallah and El Yamiq ON.

Can Morocco hold on?! A place in the last-16 on the line - they need a point here!

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:33 , Kieran Jackson

72 mins: Oh so close for Canada!

Atiba Hutchinson wins the header from the corner and it smashes the bottom of the crossbar - hits the line - and then Jamieson can’t get his head over the ball following up!

Inches away for the Canadians! Morocco’s lead hanging by a thread...

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(Getty Images)

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:31 , Kieran Jackson

71 mins: Davies’ free-kick is overhit but is nonetheless headed behind by Morocco’s Romain Saïss.

Canada corner...

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:30 , Kieran Jackson

70 mins: Ziyech accelerating - surging! - towards the Canada penalty area and he looks like he’s been tripped, but no free-kick says the referee.

Yet Buchanan wins one in the Morocco half. Chance to swing one in here...

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:25 , Kieran Jackson

65 mins: Double substitution for Morocco:

Boufal and Sabiri OFF; Amallah and Aboukhlal ON.

Canada also make a change: Osorio makes way for Laryea.

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:24 , Kieran Jackson

63 mins: Canada’s domination continues here - they’re probing!

But Morocco holding firm and solid in their shape...

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:21 , Kieran Jackson

61 mins: Triple substitution for Canada:

Kaye, Larin and Adekugbe OFF; Hutchinson, Kone and David ON.

Strange one given the momentum of the game at the moment, me thinks.

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:18 , Kieran Jackson

58 mins: Hoilett does well down the right and crosses in for Davies rushing into the box - but his stabbed volley is well wide!

Still, much better from Canada, who are on top at the moment!

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:17 , Kieran Jackson

56 mins: Terrific ball in from a free-kick out wide by Alphonso Davies - but Larin can’t quite get on the end of it as it evades everyone and goes out for a goal-kick.

Morocco are not quite as bright as they were in the first-half...

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:16 , Kieran Jackson

55 mins: Davies does well to shimmy away from Ziyech on the left, who fouls the Canada star.

He’s struggled to get into the game so far has the Bayern Munich player! Canada starting to push a little more here though...

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:13 , Kieran Jackson

52 mins: Bizarre stoppage in play here - Canada stop play and complain that the ball is flat!

It’s the World Cup - not Sunday league! Game restarts with a drop-ball...

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:08 , Kieran Jackson

48 mins: Ziyech whips in a cross from the right but it’s straight into the hands of Borjan.

Morocco in control of possession in the early stages of this second-half...

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:06 , Kieran Jackson

SECOND-HALF: Canada get us underway for the second-half!

It’s Canada’s last 45 of Qatar 2022, while Morocco need just a point to make sure it’s not their last half of football at this World Cup!

Canada 1-2 Morocco

16:05 , Kieran Jackson

The players are back out for the second-half at the Al Thumama Stadium!

No changes at the break...

Croatia 0-0 Belgium

15:56 , Kieran Jackson

HALF-TIME: All-square at the interval between Croatia and Belgium.

As it stands: Croatia going through in second place, with Belgium heading out!

Follow live:

Croatia vs Belgium LIVE: World Cup 2022 updates

Canada 1-2 Morocco

15:50 , Kieran Jackson

HALF-TIME: What a half that was!

Morocco looked to be cruising at 2-0 up courtesy of goals from Ziecyh and En-Nesyri but that late own-goal has given Canada hope of a first point in this World Cup!

As it stands though, Morocco are going through as group winners! Still plenty to play for...

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)
 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

Canada 1-2 Morocco

15:49 , Kieran Jackson

45+3 mins: It looks like En-Nesyri has scored his second to put Morocco 3-1 up!

He’s away celebrating - but it’s been disallowed for offside! A Moroccan player was standing offside in the way of Borjan’s eyeline as the striker volleyed home.

It remains 2-1.

Canada 1-2 Morocco

15:46 , Kieran Jackson

45 mins: Five minutes of added time at the end of the first-half.

Been a stormer of a half this! Will we have any late drama?

Canada 1-2 Morocco

15:43 , Kieran Jackson

44 mins: Vitoria once again wins the header with El-Nesyri in the air but the Moroccan striker clatters into the Canada defender.

Looks all OK to continue though.

Canada 1-2 Morocco

15:42 , Jack Rathborn

40 mins: Canada pull a goal back!

It’s their second goal of the tournament - and it’s an own-goal! Morocco defender Nayef Aguerd gets a toe at the front post on Sam Adekugbe’s cross and diverts the ball past Yassine Bounou who can’t keep it out!

Morocco’s passage to the last-16 is not safe yet!

 (REUTERS)
(REUTERS)
 (REUTERS)
(REUTERS)

Canada 0-2 Morocco

15:39 , Kieran Jackson

37 mins: Canada defender Vitoria puts an elbow into the neck of En-Nesyri and is just warned by the referee for being a tad too physical.

No card.

Canada 0-2 Morocco

15:33 , Kieran Jackson

32 mins: Big block from Canada to prevent a third Moroccan goal!

Boufal was running on to the loose ball in the box but Jamieson does well to block with his foot!

The Al Thumama Stadium absolutely bouncing after a dream first half-an-hour for Morocco!

Canada 0-2 Morocco

15:29 , Kieran Jackson

29 mins: Here’s Ziyech’s goal!

Canada 0-2 Morocco

15:27 , Kieran Jackson

27 mins: Canada’s Jonathan Osorio in the book for a lunge on Abdelhamid Sabiri.

Right decision. Not so much nasty as just a bad tackle.

Canada looking fairly bright since going two down...

Canada 0-2 Morocco (En-Nesyri 23’)

15:25 , Jack Rathborn

23 mins: Morocco double their lead!

It’s a brilliant goal this! Achraf Hakimi - from right back - plays a delightful through ball to Youssef En-Nesyri who finishes with aplomb at the near post!

Could Borjan do better? Perhaps. Either way Morocco heading through - and at the moment top of the group!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

Canada 0-1 Morocco

15:24 , Jack Rathborn

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
 (REUTERS)
(REUTERS)

Canada 0-1 Morocco

15:21 , Kieran Jackson

21 mins: Game has slowed down a touch since that chaotic opening 15 minutes. Morocco trying to restore some calmness to proceedings given their one-goal lead.

Canada 0-1 Morocco

15:17 , Kieran Jackson

15 mins: Oh wonderful counter-attack from Canada!

It’s brilliant inter-play between Larin and Hoilett on the right - and Larin strides forward towards the box but his ball across the penalty area has just too much weight on it for Tajon Buchanan at the back post sliding in!

First bright spark from the Canadians!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

Canada 0-1 Morocco

15:11 , Kieran Jackson

11 mins: Morocco completely dominant here!

Ziyech this time whips in a free-kick from the right but Canada’s Cyle Larin hoofs clear.

What a start from the north Africans!

Canada 0-1 Morocco

15:09 , Kieran Jackson

9 mins: Sabiri takes a shot on from long range but Canada’s wall holds firm.

Borjan punches clear from the subsequent corner...

Canada 0-1 Morocco

15:08 , Kieran Jackson

8 mins: Canada’s Junior Hoilett in the book for a really late challenge on Moroccan midfielder Azzedine Ounahi.

Nasty that. Morocco have a free-kick, centre of the pitch, 30 yards out from goal...

Canada 0-1 Morocco (Ziyech 4’)

15:05 , Kieran Jackson

GOAL! Morocco have the early breakthrough - but what a howler from Canada keeper Milan Borjan!

It’s a poor back-pass from Canada defender Steven Vitória - Borjan gets there but it’s a heavy touch and Hakim Ziyech has the relatively simple task of tapping in to an empty net from 25 yards.

Desperate moment for Canada - elation for Morocco!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: Canada vs Morocco

15:03 , Kieran Jackson

2 mins: First opening for Morocco!

A ball is fizzed across the penalty area - but Youssef En-Nesyri can’t quite get there!

World Cup 2022: Canada vs Morocco

15:01 , Kieran Jackson

KICK-OFF: We’re underway here - Canada in an all-red strip, Morocco in all-white.

World Cup 2022: Canada vs Morocco - a reminder of the starting XIs!

14:59 , Kieran Jackson

Canada: Borjan, Johnston, Steven Vitoria, Miller, Adekugbe, Osorio, Kaye, Davies, Buchanan, Larin, Hoilett

Morocco: Bounou, Hakimi, Aguerd, Saiss, Mazraoui, Ounahi, Amrabat, Sabiri, Ziyech, En-Nesyri, Boufal.

World Cup 2022: Canada vs Morocco

14:54 , Kieran Jackson

The teams are out at the Al Thumama Stadium in Doha.

Time for the national anthems!

World Cup 2022: Canada vs Morocco

14:50 , Kieran Jackson

The players have completed their warm-up at the Al Thumama Stadium in Doha and we’re just 10 minutes from kick-off!

The equation for Morocco is pretty simple: win and they are through to the knockout stages of the World Cup for the first time since 1986!

Canada, despite wowing with their aggressive style of play, are already out having lost their first two games against Belgium and Croatia and are simply playing for pride in their final group game of Qatar 2022.

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)
 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: Canada vs Morocco

14:42 , Kieran Jackson

It’s not just the Moroccan players who have lit up this World Cup so far - the fans have been exceptional too!

A last-16 place awaits should they beat Canada today!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website