Canada vs Morocco

Canada face Morocco at Houston Stadium on Saturday evening in the World Cup round of 16, the furthest the nation has ever gone in the competition’s history.

Jesse Marsch’s side beat South Africa 1–0 in the last 32 to reach this stage for the first time. Morocco, semi-finalists in 2022 and penalties winners over the Netherlands in the last 32, represent a significant step up. Canada have never beaten Morocco. Marsch knows it. His pre-match tone has been defiant regardless.

Ismael Kone is out for the remainder of the tournament with a broken ankle. No other injury concerns have been reported in the Canada camp. The major selection question is Alphonso Davies. The Bayern Munich left back came off the bench in the 75th minute against South Africa for his first international appearance since March 2025, following a long-term injury absence.

Marsch did not rule out a starting role in the round of 16 immediately after the South Africa win. Richie Laryea has started every match at this tournament at left back and offers the safer, more reliable option — Marsch is likely to keep faith with him and manage Davies carefully from the bench.

On the left wing, Jacob Shaffelburg and Liam Millar are competing for the starting berth. Shaffelburg’s defensive contribution and work rate give him a marginal edge in a game where Morocco will dominate the ball. Up front, Jonathan David starts as the focal point of the attack. Tani Oluwaseyi partners him, with Cyle Larin available from the bench.

Stephen Eustaquio, the hero of the South Africa win, starts in central midfield alongside Ismael Saliba. Tajon Buchanan provides pace and directness on the right. Maxime Crepeau continues in goal behind a back four of Alistair Johnston, Kamal Miller, Derek Cornelius and Laryea.

Canada possible starting XI (4-4-2): Crepeau; Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Laryea; Buchanan, Saliba, Eustaquio, Shaffelburg; David, Oluwaseyi

The FIFA World Cup round of 16 match kicks off at 18:00 BST on Saturday, 4 July 2026.

How to watch Canada vs Morocco?

The match will be broadcast live on ITV1 and ITVX in the UK.

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