Late show sees Morocco edge past Haiti in World Cup thriller

Morocco kept their knockout stage hopes alive with a dramatic late victory over Haiti in Atlanta. The match seemed destined for a stalemate until substitutes Soufiane Rahimi and Gessime Yassine struck in the final minutes, breaking Haitian hearts and securing a crucial three points.

For Haiti, it was a familiar tale of what might have been. The tournament debutants had battled tenaciously throughout, frustrating Morocco's attack and looking increasingly likely to claim their historic first World Cup point. But football can be cruel, and two moments of quality in the dying stages shattered their dreams.

The first goal came from a well-worked set piece, with Rahimi finding space in the box to slot home. Then, as Haiti pushed forward in search of an equalizer, Yassine capitalized on a counter-attack to seal the win. The scenes of joy among the Moroccan players contrasted sharply with the desolation of their opponents.

This result has significant implications for Group H. Morocco now sit level on points with group leaders Germany, setting up a potential winner-takes-all showdown in the final round of fixtures. For Haiti, however, elimination is now confirmed, but they can hold their heads high after pushing a strong Moroccan side to the limit.

Soufiane Rahimi, in particular, showed why she is considered one of Morocco's most dangerous weapons off the bench. Her late intervention may prove vital in determining who progresses from what is shaping up to be a thrilling group stage.

With one game remaining, Morocco control their own destiny. Haiti, meanwhile, will look to salvage pride in their final match, hoping to finally break their World Cup duck after coming so agonizingly close.