Morocco twice overcame the shock of conceding to Haiti to win a World Cup thriller 4-2 in Atlanta on Wednesday, but missed out on top spot in Group C to Brazil. Haiti bowed out with their first World Cup goals for 52 years as a Yassine Bounou own goal and Wilson Isidor's stunning strike twice gave them the lead.
Historic Goals and Comeback
Achraf Hakimi and Ismael Saibari, with his third goal in as many games at the World Cup, levelled before half-time. Soufiane Rahimi's deflected effort found the top corner to give Morocco the lead before Gessime Yassine rounded off the scoring. Despite bowing out without a point, Haiti's performances at a first World Cup since 1974 have done a nation gripped by poverty proud.
Morocco's Path Forward
By finishing second to Brazil on goal difference, Morocco will head to Monterrey for a likely meeting against the Netherlands or Japan in the last 32 on Monday. Les Grenadiers were already eliminated after losing to Scotland and Brazil, but the thousands of Haitian expats in the stands at Atlanta were undeterred as every attack was met with deafening cheers.
Player Performances and Reactions
Sunderland striker Isidor expressed pride in Haiti's performance, despite the frustration of not securing a point. Hakimi, who is facing a trial on rape charges in France, continued to captain Morocco and said he was in a good place both personally and professionally. Hakimi equalised with a simple tap-in after Johny Placide could only parry Bilal El Khannouss' strike.
Match Highlights
Within four minutes of Hakimi's goal, Haiti had restored their lead with Isidor's spectacular strike from outside the area. Morocco responded before half-time with Saibari's cool finish. Rahimi's powerful strike and Yassine's finish secured the win for Morocco.
