Morocco beat Scotland 1-0 to boost knockout hopes

KATHMANDU: Ismael Saibari scored after just 71 seconds as Morocco secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Scotland in a Group C clash at the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Friday, strengthening their chances of reaching the knockout stage.

The match at Boston Stadium in Massachusetts was decided by Saibari’s lightning-fast goal, which proved enough for the world’s fifth-ranked team to overcome a spirited but ineffective Scottish side in front of 64,146 spectators.

The 25-year-old midfielder, who also scored in Morocco’s 1-1 draw with Brazil last week, continued his impressive form with a clinical finish past Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn.

Born in Spain and raised in Belgium, Saibari is reportedly close to completing a move from Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven to German giants FC Bayern Munich in a deal worth around $63 million.

Morocco’s superior quality was evident throughout the contest against a Scotland side ranked 40th in the world. With four points from two matches, the Atlas Lions are now in a strong position to qualify for the Round of 32 as they seek to replicate or surpass their historic semifinal run at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Scotland’s hopes of building on their opening 1-0 win over Haiti suffered a major setback. Despite arriving in the United States with renewed optimism following their first World Cup victory since 1990, Steve Clarke’s side struggled to create meaningful chances and rarely troubled Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

Clarke had made three defensive changes, including the return of Kieran Tierney, but Morocco struck almost immediately. A pass from Brahim Díaz caught Scotland’s defense out as Grant Hanley failed to execute the offside trap, allowing Saibari to race through and fire home emphatically.

Morocco continued to dominate after taking the lead. Bilal El Khannouss squandered a promising opportunity in the 36th minute, while Scotland offered little attacking threat before halftime. Captain Andy Robertson delivered a dangerous cross, but John McGinn failed to capitalize.

The North Africans came close to doubling their advantage early in the second half when Saibari’s effort deflected off Jack Hendry and crashed against the crossbar. Moments later, Gunn produced an excellent save to deny El Khannouss from close range.

Scotland pushed forward in the closing stages but could not find an equalizer. Ryan Christie fired over the bar, while Scott McTominay saw his effort hit the side netting.

Morocco will next face Haiti in Atlanta on Wednesday, while Scotland must take on Brazil in Miami in a crucial match that could determine their World Cup fate.