Canada's Jesse Marsch says 'I'd rather be us' than Morocco after defeat sees 2026 World Cup co-hosts bow out

React to this story

Canada were beaten 3-0 by Morocco on Saturday evening as they were knocked out of the 2026 World Cup. Despite Morocco's impressive form and standing in world football, Canada's head coach Jesse Marsch said he felt his side were better positioned for the future.

‘We can make history!’ - Ochoa relishing England World Cup clash

Video credit: SNTV

The co-hosts were eliminated from the 2026 World Cup round of 16 after failing to withstand the attacking threat from one of the most dangerous sides in international football.

Morocco are the AFCON reigning champions, and boast some hugely exciting players such as Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz.

All three of Morocco's goals came in the second half, with Azzedine Ounahi scoring a brace, and Soufiane Rahimi adding a 98th-minute third to wrap up the victory.

World Cup

'If you go after my family, I'm gone' - Klopp issues warning after being appointed new Germany boss

10 hours ago

For Canada, there are some mitigating factors. Their star player, Alphonso Davies, was rarely able to play after an injury suffered with his club, Bayern Munich, and Ismael Kone picked up a serious knee injury against Qatar in the group stages.

Speaking to the press after the defeat, Marsch was asked how the side would react ahead of the next major tournament, the 2030 World Cup, to be held in Spain, Portugal and their opponents on Saturday evening, Morocco.

Anticipating his involvement in four years’ time, Marsch said Canada’s supporters were fortunate to have watched his side.

‘It doesn’t matter’ - Rashford dismisses altitude concerns ahead of England v Mexico

Video credit: SNTV

The former Leeds United head coach offered: ”What a privilege our fans had to root for a team like this that goes after the game, that doesn't play defensive, that shows that they can be better.”

Marsch suggested one aspect that Canada could improve would be to gain more experience in high-stakes knockout rounds.

”Of course, we have to be in these situations more and more,” he continued. ”And then we have to find ways to succeed, we have to find ways to build on that.”

It was then that Marsch made a somewhat outlandish claim that he felt his side were in a better position for the coming years than the future World Cup co-hosts, current AFCON champions, and the side who had just beaten them comprehensively in a World Cup taking place on Canada’s own continent.

He told the interviewer: ”I'd rather be us than them. As good as Morocco is, I'd rather be us.”

Marsch then concluded by praising his team and the attitude of the players in attacking their opponents, despite the one-sided nature of the scoreline.

He said: ”I’m really proud of our guys. We went after the game. They’re hurting right now, but my goodness, I couldn’t be prouder.”

Morocco are yet to find out who they will play in the quarter-finals of the World Cup. Their next match will be on Thursday, July 9, and they will face the winners of the game between Paraguay and France.

The last-eight tie will be held at Boston Stadium.

Add TNT Sports as a preferred source here to enjoy more content like this.

Stream the Premier League, Men’s and Women’s FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Conference League and more on TNT Sports and HBO Max.

World Cup