Canada’s historic FIFA World Cup run got here to an finish Saturday with a 3-0 loss to Morocco within the Spherical of 16 in Houston, Texas.
Whereas many Canadians have been left heartbroken after the boys’s nationwide group’s deepest run ever at a World Cup ended, 1000’s of others took to the streets and eating places to have a good time.
In cities like Montreal, Vancouver and Toronto, members of Canada’s Moroccan group erupted in celebration as Morocco superior to the quarterfinals.
One of many largest names behind Morocco’s success additionally has Canadian ties.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, who was born in Montreal earlier than shifting to Morocco as a toddler, helped anchor Morocco’s shutout victory.
Bounou has turn out to be one of many event’s standout goalkeepers all through the World Cup up to now.
In Montreal’s Petit Maghreb neighbourhood, dozens gathered at eating places alongside Jean-Talon Road sporting crimson Morocco jerseys and waving Moroccan flags.
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After a tense opening half during which Canada managed lengthy stretches of play, celebrations erupted when Morocco scored early within the second half.
A heavy police presence, together with mounted officers and members in riot gear, monitored the celebrations and labored to maintain crowds on the sidewalks.
Greater than 4,500 kilometres away in Vancouver, round 60 supporters packed a Moroccan restaurant in Yaletown to look at the match.
Otto Outn, who travelled from Morocco and now lives in Vancouver, praised Canada’s efficiency regardless of the end result.
“Canada was taking part in like a really sturdy, assured group. They put Morocco again on their heels a bit of bit,” he mentioned. “However then within the second half we have been in a position to rating two targets, end with a 3rd. Congratulations.”
Christa Aucy, honorary consul for the Kingdom of Morocco in British Columbia, mentioned the gathering mirrored the energy of the native Moroccan group.
“We’re feeling nice. It’s been a unbelievable day,” she mentioned. “It’s been superior to play Canada. It was actually an honour, and what a recreation it was.”
Restaurant proprietor Mohamed El Haddi mentioned the World Cup has introduced the native Moroccan group collectively.
“We’ve achieved this earlier than, however an increasing number of individuals are getting excited as we progress,” he mentioned.
Morocco will face France within the quarterfinals on Thursday, whereas Canada’s event ends after its deepest-ever run on soccer’s largest stage.
– With recordsdata from Dan Spector, International Information
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