World Cup Predictions & Tips | Round of 16: Paraguay v France

Match 90: Canada v Morocco
Location: Houston Stadium
Time: 5:00am, Sunday 5 July
Head to Head: Canada Wins (0), Morocco (2), Draws (0)

Key Stats

• Morocco are undefeated in their last 33 games
• Under 2.5 goals is 11-2 in Canada’s last 13 games
• Under 2.5 goals is 4-1 in Morocco’s last 5 games
• Hakimi has record 2+ Shots in all four games played

Preview

Canada’s battle with South Africa was moments away from entering extra time but a goal from Stephen Eustaquio sent Los Angeles Stadium into a frenzy. Their defence continues to be rock-solid and they have now recorded 6 cleans sheets in their last 11 games. With a single goal in their Round of 32 clash, Under 2.5 goals has now held in 11 of their last 13 matches overall and we are unlikely to see both teams score as it has happened in only 4 of their previous 13.

The co-hosts must now find a way to knockout a Moroccan team that has become allergic to losing. They appeared to be down and out against the Netherlands but found an equaliser in injury time before winning a dramatic penalty shootout. Morocco are now undefeated in their last 33 across all competitions and are proving to be incredibly difficult to break down. Under 2.5 is 4-1 in their last 5 games leading in and 4-0 in their last 4 knockout games in this competition dating back to Qatar.

As mentioned leading into their battle with the Netherlands, Morocco play a more conservative brand of football when facing prominent nations. There has been a total of only 11 goals scored in their last 10 games in this tournament when facing countries ranked in the top 40. Canada has been able to get number forward throughout this tournament, as indicated by 39 corners in 4 games played, but this is their toughest opponent to date. Expecting Morocco to dominate possession and that will make it difficult for Canada to get on the scoresheet. Morocco 1-0.

Player To Watch

Hakimi has been spectacular for Morocco and was against their biggest attacking threat against the Dutch despite being listed as a right back. He led the team in shots (3) and was second to El Aynaoui in touches. Hakimi is a constant threat and it takes more than a single player to close his down and he roams into all areas of the pitch. Canada will need a comprehensive plan to contain him otherwise they will be in serious trouble. He has recorded 2+ shots in all four games played.

Betting Tips

Best Bet: Under 2.5 goals ($1.62)
Other: Morocco WIN/Under 2.5 goals ($3.40)
Value: Achraf Hakimi 4+ Shots ($4.60)
SGM: Morocco To Qualify, Both Teams To Score – NO, Hakimi 1+ Shots on Target ($4.21)