Canada manager Jesse Marsch sparked widespread confusion after declaring "I'd rather be us than them" — referring to Morocco — despite his side suffering a 3-0 defeat in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.

Morocco, the reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions, controlled the match clinically. Azzedine Ounahi broke the deadlock with a thunderous strike in the 55th minute, then doubled his tally in the 82nd minute. Soufiane Rahimi completed the rout in stoppage time, putting any doubt to rest.

Canada's attacking intent, Morocco's ruthless efficiency

Canada were not without ambition. Marsch's side generated 0.86 expected goals across 10 shot attempts — marginally more than Morocco's 0.78 xG — yet it was Morocco who converted with cold precision, leaving the scoreboard telling an unforgiving story.

Speaking to reporters after the final whistle, Marsch chose to focus on the attitude his players had displayed rather than the outcome on the scoreboard.

"What a privilege our fans have had to root on a team like this, that goes after the game, that doesn't play defensive, that shows they can be better, right? Of course, we have to be in these situations more and more, and then we have to find ways to succeed, and then we have to build. But what a great team."

He then delivered the remark that raised eyebrows across the footballing world: "I'd rather be us than them. As good as Morocco is, I'd rather be us, right? 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."

Pundits left scratching their heads

When coverage returned to the FOX Sports studio, former United States internationals Clint Dempsey and Landon Donovan struggled to make sense of Marsch's sentiment. Canada had managed just three shots on target across the entire contest, and were heading home after a comprehensive defeat.

Morocco now advance to face the winner of the France versus Paraguay match, as the Africa Cup of Nations holders push for a second consecutive World Cup semi-final appearance.