FIFA World Cup: Morocco beat Canada 2-1 and are through to knockouts

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Morocco became the first African side to finish top of their World Cup group in the 21st Century after they defeated Canada 2-1.

Morocco are not only through - they're group winners!

Six straight defeats at the World Cup for Canada but, for Morocco, they have reached the last 16 for only the second time in their history - emulating the Class of 1986.

Before this year's tournament, Morocco had won only two games at the FIFA World Cup.

Hakim Ziyech gave Morocco the lead in the fourth minute, before Youssef En-Nesyri made it 2-0 at Al Thumama Stadium on Thursday. Nayef Aguerd’s own goal in the 40th minute gave Canada some hope, but nothing changed for the remaining part of the game.