SALÉ, Morocco — Moroccan football supporters celebrated their national team's place in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals over the weekend, with one gathering in the city of Salé drawing attention for the appearance of a pet goat that fans have adopted as an unofficial symbol during local celebrations.
Video verified by multiple news organizations showed supporters carrying and cheering around the goat, named "Skiwida," after Morocco's 3-0 victory over co-host Canada in the Round of 16 on Saturday. The footage was shared by the animal's owner, Mehdi Chabat, and showed crowds waving Moroccan flags, chanting and sounding car horns as the celebrations unfolded.
According to footage published by ABC News and Storyful, Chabat lifted the goat above the crowd as supporters applauded and celebrated Morocco's latest milestone in the tournament. The animal has become a familiar presence among some local fans, who regard it as an unofficial mascot during football festivities.
Morocco secured its place in the last eight with a 3-0 win over Canada in Houston, continuing a tournament run that has prompted celebrations across the country and among Moroccan communities abroad. Reuters reported that midfielder Azzedine Ounahi scored twice before substitute Soufiane Rahimi added a late third goal, while goalkeeper Yassine Bounou produced several key saves to preserve the clean sheet.
The victory followed Morocco's dramatic penalty-shootout win over the Netherlands in the Round of 32, a result that also sparked widespread celebrations in Morocco and overseas. While many gatherings passed peacefully, authorities in some European cities reported isolated disturbances and arrests linked to post-match celebrations.
Across Morocco, thousands of supporters filled streets and public squares after the Canada match, waving national flags, singing and celebrating the Atlas Lions' continued progress in the tournament. Similar scenes were reported in several cities as fans marked another historic achievement for the national side.
Morocco's quarter-final appearance adds to the country's growing record on the global stage after its breakthrough run to the semi-finals at the 2022 World Cup. Tournament organizers have confirmed that Morocco will next compete in the quarter-finals, with supporters continuing to gather for public celebrations as the team prepares for its next match.
