Morocco have reached the men’s Olympic football semi-finals for the first time after a commanding 4-0 victory over the United States at Paris 2024.
The North African side dominated proceedings at a packed Parc des Princes, where a decidedly pro-Moroccan crowd created an electric atmosphere.
Soufiane Rahimi opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 29th minute after Nathan Harriel fouled him in the box. US goalkeeper Patrick Schulte guessed correctly but couldn’t keep out Rahimi’s precise strike.
Morocco stepped up a gear after the break, with Ilias Akhomach doubling their lead following good work from Abde Ezzalzouli. Experienced defender Achraf Hakimi then added a third with a sublime solo effort, before Mehdi Maouhoub converted another penalty to complete the rout.
With each goal, Moroccan fans set off celebratory flares, bathing the stadium in red smoke and adding to the spectacle. The passionate support seemed to buoy the Atlas Lions, who controlled 57% of possession and forced eight corners to the USA’s three.
For the Americans, their best chances came early. Paxten Aaronson missed a close-range opportunity in the 9th minute, while Miles Robinson failed to convert from 10 yards out just before the hour mark.
Despite the heavy defeat, reaching the knockout stages marked progress for the USA, who had not qualified for the Olympics since 2008. They recovered from an opening 3-0 loss to hosts France with wins over New Zealand and Guinea.
Morocco, who had never previously progressed beyond the group stage in the under-23 format, will face Spain in Monday’s semi-final. They are now just one win away from guaranteeing themselves a medal.
The United States, meanwhile, continue their long wait for a first men’s Olympic football medal in the modern era. Their last quarter-final appearance came at Sydney 2000.
