Morocco hero Ounahi hails side's character after hard-fought World Cup win over Canada

Ounahi, who scored twice for Morocco in the win over Canada, told reporters in Houston: "I am proud of everyone, of the whole group... We are a team, we are all united, and we want the same thing. We have a common goal. 

"Today I'm here talking because I scored, but it would have been the same if another teammate had scored: we would all have been happy. I am truly proud of this generation and this group."

It was a match that was not easy in the first half, but Morocco managed to break the deadlock after the break and then pull away.

"The team's response was one of great strength and character," The Girona midfielder stated. "We faced many problems, even off the pitch, and there were a lot of difficulties. They tried to put obstacles in our way, but we stayed focused.

"At half-time, we tried to fix a few things and, thank God, we managed to solve them.

"We had players who know exactly what to do, and others who gave everything on the pitch. Everyone fought until the end and, thank God, we saw a team that showed character and personality."

Ounahi also mentioned the nation's fans, who are celebrating seeing their team make the last eight of a World Cup for the second time in a row.

"When I see our fans, I see men, women, young people and children: everyone is happy. We know how much football means to the Moroccan people and how much this national team represents for the country.

"We will keep giving everything on the pitch to make them proud. I promise: we will keep fighting until the end and, God willing, we will do everything to bring more joy to our people."

Click here for more on the match