2026 World Cup: Morocco face Canada, France seek to avoid Paraguay upsets in Round of 16

SANAA, July 04 (YPA) – The 2026 World Cup Round of 16 action continues on Saturday with two high-stakes clashes to secure quarter-final berths:

Morocco vs. Canada (8:00 PM Mecca Time):

The Moroccan national team face their Canadian counterparts in the US city of Houston. The “Atlas Lions” enter the clash in high spirits after edging past the Netherlands on penalties in the Round of 32, relying on the experience of their stars led by Achraf Hakimi and their defensive solidity.

Conversely, the Canadian team, who reached this stage after defeating South Africa 1-0, look to spring a surprise under coach Jesse Marsch. Marsch’s tactics rely on high pressing and rapid transitions, banking on stars Jonathan David, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio.

France vs. Paraguay (12:00 AM Mecca Time):

Philadelphia Stadium hosts a highly anticipated showdown between France and Paraguay. The French team—the favorites on paper—enter the match following a convincing 3-0 victory over Sweden in the Round of 32, spearheaded by the stellar form of Kylian Mbappé and the guidance of manager Didier Deschamps, who warned against the challenging hot and humid conditions.

Meanwhile, Paraguay enter the tie with immense confidence after pulling off one of the tournament’s biggest upsets by eliminating Germany on penalties, armed with their defensive resilience and swift counter-attacks led by Julio Enciso and Miguel Almirón.

YPA