Morocco advances to World Cup round of 16 as captain Achraf Hakimi faces rape trial

Morocco and Egypt became the only African teams to reach the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after winning their round‑of‑32 matches on penalties. Morocco defeated the Netherlands 3‑2 in a shoot‑out following a 1‑1 draw, while Egypt overcame Australia 4‑2 on penalties after a 1‑1 stalemate.

Morocco’s captain, right‑back Achraf Hakimi, will line up for the upcoming clash against Canada despite being formally charged with rape in France. The Versailles Court of Appeal found sufficient evidence to send the case to trial, which is expected to take place this fall in the Hauts‑de‑Seine criminal court. Hakimi has denied the allegations and says he will face the trial while continuing his World Cup campaign.