The Atlas Lions produced a second-half masterclass after being given a genuine scare by the Caribbean side, who scored two historic World Cup goals but ultimately fell short in their quest for a first-ever point at the tournament.
Dramatic First Half Sees Haiti Lead Twice
Haiti stunned the favorites early, taking a shock lead in the 11th minute through striker Lenny Joseph, who tapped home a cross from Kervin Duverne to spark wild celebrations among the Grenadiers faithful.
Achraf Hakimi leveled for Morocco in the 39th minute with a trademark surging run and finish. However, Haiti responded almost immediately. In the 44th minute, Wilson Isidor unleashed a stunning long-range strike to restore the underdogs' lead at 2-1 going into halftime.
Ismael Saibari equalized deep into first-half stoppage time (45'+1'), ensuring the teams went into the break level at 2-2 after a breathless opening period.
Morocco’s Late Flourish Seals Victory
The second half belonged to Morocco. Substitute Soufiane Rahimi put the Atlas Lions ahead for the first time in the 78th minute, and fellow replacement Gessime Yassine added a fourth in the 89th minute to wrap up the victory and extinguish any lingering hopes for Haiti.
Final Score: Morocco 4-2 Haiti Goals: Morocco: Hakimi (39'), Saibari (45'+1'), Rahimi (78'), Yassine (89') Haiti: Joseph (11'), Isidor (44')
Group C Implications
The result confirms Morocco's progression to the knockout stage as Group C runners-up with seven points. Haiti exit the tournament without a point but with immense pride after competitive displays and two memorable goals against stronger opposition.
Key Performers:
- Soufiane Rahimi & Gessime Yassine (Morocco) — Impact substitutes who turned the game.
- Achraf Hakimi — Dynamic as ever on the right flank.
- Lenny Joseph & Wilson Isidor (Haiti) — Scored historic goals and troubled Morocco’s defense.
Morocco now prepare for a challenging Round of 32 matchup, while Haiti’s campaign ends with valuable experience gained on football’s biggest stage. The match will be remembered as one of the most entertaining group-stage games of the 2026 tournament so far.
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