Morocco's Hakimi sparks melee in Canada World Cup 2026 match

During the round‑of‑16 match between Canada and Morocco at the 2026 World Cup in Houston on 4 July, play became physical and a major altercation broke out around the 40th minute. Morocco’s winger Achraf Hakimi was pushed by Ghanaian‑born Canadian defender Laryea, leading to a scramble in which Hakimi was knocked to the ground and the two players exchanged blows. The fight quickly involved several teammates, prompting referee Oliver to intervene and restore order.

The referee issued six yellow cards in the first half, four of them to Moroccan players, as the match continued after calm was restored. The incident highlighted the tense atmosphere of the knockout‑stage encounter.