‘Rather be us’: Bizarre claim from coach after elimination

Canada has become the first co-host of the 2026 World Cup to bow out of the tournament following a 3-0 defeat to Morocco on Sunday (AEST).

Despite the definitive scoreline, Canada head coach Jesse Marsch turned heads post-match with his comments.

Marsch had a 'bold' claim after his side's loss to Morocco. Hector Vivas

Speaking to reporters after the defeat, Marsch doubled down on Canada’s aggressive, forward-thinking approach, arguing that fans were “privileged” to watch a team that refuses to rely on defensive tactics.

“What a privilege our fans have had to root on a team like this — that goes after the game, does not play defensive,” said Marsch.

Marsch emphasised that these heartbreaks are part of the learning curve for an ever-growing football nation.

“We have to be in these situations more and more and find ways to succeed, and we have to build from that.

“As good as Morocco are, I’d rather be us. I’m really proud of our guys. We went after the game and they are really hurting right now, but I couldn’t be prouder.

“The way we pushed, the way we were in the match, the quality we showed, the overall impact in the match. We were better. We were better than the No. 7 team in the world today.”

Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi begged to differ with Marsch’s assessment of the match, labelling the Canadian coach’s view as a “bold” take.

“In terms of intensity they were good, that has to be said,” he explained.

“Were they better? Hard to say that when you lose 3-0, it’s a bold claim. They were well-organised, but I think in the second half there was no contest.”

The dominant second-half display did more than just book Morocco’s ticket to the next round. With the victory, Morocco became the first African nation ever to score three goals in a World Cup knockout match.

“It’s a World Cup match and these are difficult games with teams playing for their lives,” Ouahbi said further.

“We reacted very well in the second half in the second balls and the duels. I have to recognise that Canada were impressive, they played a top match.

“It was no surprise for us, but in the second half we were able to profit from the space they left us, that was the key.”

Morocco has now booked their quarter-final ticket, set to match up against tournament favourites France.