2026 World Cup: Canada shakes Morocco, 0-0 at halftime in Houston

High pressing, repeated corners: Canadians dominate a wild first half

Africa 04 July 2026 at 13:53

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2026 World Cup: Canada shakes Morocco, 0-0 at halftime in Houston

04.07.26 FT World Cup

Canada

Morocco

Driven by aggressive pressing, the Canadians thoroughly dominated the action against Morocco, but failed to break the deadlock before halftime.

Canada showed no nerves despite their underdog status. Right from the kickoff, the Canadians imposed high and relentless pressing, winning three consecutive corners and pinning the Moroccan side deep in their own half during the opening minutes.

Amid this onslaught, Yassine Bounou proved to be the savior for the Atlas Lions. The most dangerous chance of the half came when a poorly cleared corner fell to Richie Laryea, who laid it off for Jonathan David—only for the Canadian striker’s close-range shot to be denied by a reflex save from the Moroccan goalkeeper.

Not used to being under such pressure, Morocco struggled to find their rhythm against the physical Canadian side, a challenge underscored by the early injury exit of Ismael Saibari. Halftime score: 0-0.