Morocco created history in the FIFA World Cup after a thrilling 4-2 victory over Haiti in their Group C clash, sealing qualification for the Round of 32 and setting multiple records for an African nation in the tournament’s history.

The result ensured Morocco finished as group runners-up with two wins and a draw, matching Brazil’s points and overall record in the group. The win also made Morocco only the third African nation, after Nigeria (1994 and 1998) and Ghana (2006 and 2010), to reach the knockout stages in consecutive World Cup editions.

The team, led by Morocco national football team, had earlier made headlines in the previous edition by becoming the first African side to reach the World Cup semi-finals, marking a breakthrough moment for the continent.

Against Haiti, Morocco overcame early setbacks in a dramatic encounter. Haiti took a surprise lead in the 10th minute when a defensive deflection off goalkeeper Yassine Bounou resulted in an own goal, giving them a 1-0 advantage.

Morocco responded in the 39th minute through Achraf Hakimi, who scored from close range after a rebound inside the box. However, Haiti regained the lead just before half-time when Wilson Isidor curled in a long-range strike in the 43rd minute.

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The North African side struck back almost immediately, with Ismael Saibari converting a stoppage-time equaliser to make it 2-2 at the break.

Morocco dominated possession in the second half, controlling nearly 70 per cent of the ball and creating several chances, but Haiti’s goalkeeper Johny Placide made key saves to keep the contest level for long periods.

The breakthrough came after tactical substitutions around the 70th minute, with Soufiane Rahimi and Gessime Yassine introduced to increase attacking intensity. Rahimi made an immediate impact, scoring in the 78th minute after capitalising on a loose ball from a corner to put Morocco ahead for the first time.

As Haiti pushed for an equaliser, Morocco sealed the result on the counterattack in the 89th minute. Rahimi turned provider, setting up Yassine for a simple finish into an empty net to complete a 4-2 victory.

Statistically, Morocco finished with 22 shots and 11 on target, underlining their dominance in the second half. Despite the defeat, Haiti earned praise for a spirited display, including their first World Cup goal in 52 years.

Morocco’s record-breaking campaign also includes becoming the most successful African team in World Cup history in terms of wins and goals scored, according to CAF and ESPN Africa data.