Morocco backed to end Canada's fairytale run in World Cup last 16
Morocco's tournament pedigree and attacking quality make the Atlas Lions firm favourites against a Canada side looking to extend its fairytale Fifa World Cup run.
Canada's fairytale run in Fifa World Cup faces its toughest test yet as the underdogs take on a battle-hardened Morocco side in the round of 16 at NRG Stadium in Houston on Saturday (4 July).
Fresh from a dramatic penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands, the Atlas Lions enter the knockout clash as favourites, while Canada will look to build on their historic first-ever World Cup knockout win and continue their dream run into the quarter-finals.
The match kicks off at 11pm tonight (BST).
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Canada have already exceeded expectations by reaching the knockout stage for the first time before edging past South Africa in the round of 32.
Jesse Marsch's side have impressed with their commitment and organisation, but they now face their toughest assignment against a Morocco team widely regarded as one of the tournament's strongest contenders.
The Atlas Lions have looked assured throughout the competition, earning victories over Scotland, Haiti and the Netherlands after opening with a creditable draw against Brazil.
Canada strategy
Canada are expected to remain in a disciplined 4-4-2 formation, defending compactly before looking to counter through Jonathan David and Tani Oluwaseyi.
Stephen Eustáquio will dictate play in midfield, while Tajon Buchanan provides pace on the flank. Canada's work rate and defensive commitment have carried them this far, but their biggest weakness has been a lack of clinical finishing. Against a defence as organised as Morocco's, chances are likely to be limited, leaving little margin for error.
Morocco strategy
Mohamed Ouahbi is expected to stick with his fluid 4-2-3-1 system, built on possession, aggressive pressing and quick attacking combinations. Ayyoub Bouaddi and Neil El Aynaoui provide control in midfield, while Brahim Díaz, Bilal El Khannouss and Ismael Saibari offer creativity and movement behind the attack.
Morocco's greatest strengths are their tactical discipline, technical quality and ability to dominate matches on both sides of the ball. Their attacking depth, defensive organisation and experience in knockout football make the Atlas Lions deserved favourites to progress.
Team news
Canada remain without Ismaël Koné because of a broken leg, while Alphonso Davies is expected to feature from the bench as he continues to manage his fitness. Morocco's only injury concern is Chadi Riad, although the defender is expected to recover in time to start alongside Issa Diop in central defence.
Probable XI
Canada (4-4-2): Maxime Crépeau, Alistair Johnston, Luc De Fougerolles, Derek Cornelius, Richie Laryea; Tajon Buchanan, Mathieu Saliba, Stephen Eustáquio (c), Liam Millar; Tani Oluwaseyi, Jonathan David.
Morocco (4-2-3-1): Yassine Bounou; Achraf Hakimi (c), Issa Diop, Chadi Riad, Noussair Mazraoui; Ayyoub Bouaddi, Neil El Aynaoui; Brahim Díaz, Azzedine Ounahi, Bilal El Khannouss; Ismael Saibari.
