Canada vs Morocco Dream11 Prediction: Fantasy Football Tips, Playing XI, Captain Picks for FIFA World Cup 2026 Last 16 Match

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Last 16 stage brings a captivating showdown between co-hosts Canada and the formidable Morocco. Set to kick off on Saturday, July 4, at 10:30 PM IST, this knockout match at NRG Stadium in Houston, United States, promises to be a thrilling contest as both nations vie for a spot in the quarterfinals. Lionel Messi Becomes First to Score in Eight Consecutive WC Matches, Achieves Feat During Argentina vs Cabo Verde FIFA World Cup 2026.

Match Details

Recent Form and Head-to-Head

Morocco enters this fixture with a strong momentum, having topped their group and subsequently eliminated the Netherlands on penalties in the Round of 32 after a dramatic 1-1 draw. The Atlas Lions have displayed exceptional defensive solidity and potent counter-attacking prowess throughout the tournament, building on their historic semi-final run in the 2022 World Cup. They even managed to hold five-time champions Brazil to a 1-1 draw in the group stage, highlighting their pedigree.

Canada, on the other hand, made history by reaching the knockout stage for the first time ever, securing their spot after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Africa in the Round of 32. Their journey has included a draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina and a commanding win over Qatar in the group stages. While playing on home soil, Canada will be eager to overturn a historical disadvantage against Morocco. In four previous meetings across all competitions, Canada has never registered a win against Morocco, losing all four encounters. Their last encounter was a 2-1 defeat to Morocco in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup.

Team News and Expected Lineups

Canada Expected XI (4-3-3):

Maxime Crépeau; Alistair Johnston, Derek Cornelius, Moise Bombito, Alphonso Davies; Stephen Eustáquio, Nathan Saliba, Tajon Buchanan; Liam Millar, Jonathan David, Tani Oluwaseyi.

Key news for Canada is the potential return of superstar Alphonso Davies to the starting lineup after recovering from a hamstring injury. His presence would significantly boost their attacking threat. However, midfielder Ismaël Koné remains sidelined with a broken leg.

Morocco Expected XI (4-2-3-1):

Bono; Achraf Hakimi, Issa Diop, Chadi Riad, Noussair Mazraoui; Ayyoub Bouaddi, Neil El Aynaoui; Brahim Díaz, Azzedine Ounahi, Bilal El Khannouss; Ismael Saibari.

Morocco boasts a relatively fit squad, with defender Chadi Riad expected to start despite a recent injury concern. Ismael Saibari has been a revelation this tournament, netting three goals so far. Bono, Hakimi, and Díaz are also crucial cogs in their well-oiled machine.

Dream11 Fantasy Football Picks

Given Morocco's strong form and defensive prowess, combined with their historical advantage over Canada, they are expected to be the favourites. However, Canada's home advantage and renewed confidence make them dangerous. Will Kylian Mbappe Play in Paraguay vs France FIFA World Cup 2026 Match?.

Suggested Dream11 Playing XI:

Goalkeeper: Bono (MAR)

Defenders: Achraf Hakimi (MAR), Noussair Mazraoui (MAR), Alphonso Davies (CAN), Alistair Johnston (CAN)

Midfielders: Stephen Eustáquio (CAN), Azzedine Ounahi (MAR), Brahim Díaz (MAR)

Forwards: Ismael Saibari (MAR), Jonathan David (CAN), Tajon Buchanan (CAN)

Captain and Vice-Captain Choices:

Captain: Ismael Saibari (MAR) – With three goals already to his name, Saibari is in prolific form and is Morocco's primary goal threat.

Vice-Captain: Achraf Hakimi (MAR) – A world-class full-back, Hakimi offers attacking returns with his crosses and defensive points through clean sheets, making him a reliable pick.

Budget Differentials:

Ayyoub Bouaddi (MAR): A young, industrious midfielder who screens the defense effectively and can contribute defensively.

Tani Oluwaseyi (CAN): If he gets a start alongside Jonathan David, his pace and finishing could surprise.

Liam Millar (CAN): An agile winger who can create chances and contribute to attacks.

Players to Avoid:

Ismaël Koné (CAN): Currently out with a broken leg, he will not feature in this match.

Cyle Larin (CAN): While a prolific scorer for Canada, his starting spot might be in doubt with competition from Oluwaseyi, making him a risky pick if not confirmed in the XI.

This Last 16 clash promises intensity and strategic battles. While Morocco's experience and recent form give them an edge, Canada, buoyed by their home support and historic run, will be looking to pull off an upset. Choose your fantasy XI wisely to maximize your points in this exciting World Cup encounter.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 04, 2026 04:20 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).