By Akan Anwankwo
Morocco became the second Africa after country after Senegal to qualify for the next round of matches at the Qatar 2022 World Cup.
Morocco vs Canada
The Atlas Lions benefitted from a defensive blunder as Canadian goalkeeper made a poor clearance into the legs of Hakim Ziyech who scored with an easy finish.
Youssef En-Nesyri made it 2-0 minutes later but an own goal by Nayef Aguerd reduced the deficit for Canada as it finished 2-1.
Belgium vs Croatia
Romelu Lukaku missed three good scoring chances as Belgium were held to a 0-0 scoreline by Croatia.
Roberto Martinez’s side crashed out of the competition and the coach also announced his resignation immediately after the game.
Germany vs Costa Rica
Germany were another top side that did not make it through into the round of 16 despite beating Costa Rica by 4-2.
Substitute Kai Havertz scored a brace after the North Americans came from a goal down to move 2-2 ahead with Nicolas Fullkrug also getting one for himself.
Hansi Flick’s men came third with four points as they bowed out of the group stages for the second tournament running.
Spain vs Japan
Japan pulled out a surprise 2-1 win over highly rated Spain in their final group game.
Alvaro Morata scored his third of the tournament with a fine header but Ritsu Doan restored parity shortly after the break.
So Tanaka grabbed the winner in the 51st minute as Japan topped Group E ahead of Spain.
Round of 16 pairings so far
Senegal vs England
Netherlands vs USA
Argentina vs Australia
France vs Poland
Morocco vs Spain
Japan vs Croatia
