Morocco advances to Futsal World Cup quarterfinals beating Iran 4-3

Morocco's futsal team secured a place in the quarterfinals of the 2024 FIFA Futsal World Cup in Uzbekistan, defeating Iran 4-3 in a thrilling round-of-16 match.

The match, played at the Universal Sports Complex in Bukhara, saw Iran take an early lead through Mohammadhossein Derakhshani in the 4th minute. However, Morocco quickly responded with a goal from Khalid Bouzid to level the score.

An own goal by Alireza Rafieipour gave Morocco the advantage in the 11th minute, and goals from Soufiane El Mesrar and Idriss Raiss El Fenni extended their lead to 4-1 by the 20th minute.

Iran staged a late comeback, scoring twice in quick succession through Hossein Taybi and Moslem Oladghobad to reduce the deficit to one goal. Morocco held on to secure the victory and advance to the quarterfinals.

In the quarterfinals, Morocco will face Brazil, who defeated Costa Rica 5-0, for a chance to reach the semifinals for the first time in their history.