Morocco players hoist Palestine flag in solidarity after 2-1 win over Canada

The African nation have topped Group F at the FIFA World Cup 2022

Morocco advanced to the round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2022 after defeating Canada and finishing first in Group F with seven points, ahead of 2018 World Cup finalist and semi-finals Croatia and Belgium.

Morocco have made it this far in the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 1986. After failing to advance past the group stage in the 2018 World Cup, Morocco have shown substantial change. Their World Cup campaign began with a 0-0 draw against Croatia before handing 2-0 shock defeat to Belgium's golden generation.

Morocco performed admirably yet again against North American rivals Canada. Chelsea's Hakim Ziyech scored first, then Youssef En-Nesyri increased their lead. Morocco had hoped to keep another clean sheet, but an own goal by Nayef Aguerd crushed their aspirations.

After the final whistle, Morocco's players gathered to celebrate with fans who swarmed one side of the entire stadium. The squad also raised the Palestine flag in solidarity with the Palestinian people who are suffering as a result of Israel's occupation of Palestine.

War has been declared on the people of Palestine, and their homes, schools, and hospitals are being assaulted with bombs and missiles. There have been numerous instances where players have demonstrated their support for them; most recently, Paul Pogba waved the Palestine flag, while Qatar players and officials wore Palestine armbands in solidarity.

Morocco will now face the Group E runners-up, Spain, on December 6 in the Round of 16.