Morocco secured a valuable 1-0 win over Scotland in Group C of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Saturday.
An early goal from Ismael Saibari settled the match at Boston Stadium. The win moved Morocco to four points from two games and strengthened its chances of reaching the round of 32.
Morocco made a dream start. Saibari found the net just over a minute after kickoff. A cross from the right reached him inside the box. He controlled the ball and fired a powerful shot past goalkeeper Angus Gunn.
The goal shocked Scotland and gave Morocco full control in the opening stages.
Morocco continued to attack. Saibari created another chance minutes later, but no teammate could finish the move. Scotland struggled to keep possession and found it hard to break through the Moroccan defence.
The African side should have increased its lead before halftime. Saibari set up Bilal El Khannous in the 35th minute, but the midfielder lifted his shot over the bar from a good position.
Scotland rarely threatened in the first half. Morocco went into the break with a deserved one goal advantage.
The visitors remained on top after the restart. Saibari came close to scoring again in the 49th minute when his effort struck the crossbar after taking a deflection. Moments later, Gunn made a fine save to deny El Khannous from close range.
Scotland improved as the match went on. Ryan Christie sent a shot over the bar, while Scott McTominay forced a deflection that went into the side netting. Substitute Lyndon Dykes also headed wide from a corner.
Morocco had chances to put the game beyond doubt. Brahim Diaz and the substitutes missed good opportunities in the final stages.
Despite the missed chances, Morocco remained comfortable at the back. Bono was rarely tested as Scotland failed to create clear openings.
The final whistle confirmed Morocco’s first victory of the tournament. The team will now face Haiti in its final group match.
Scotland remain on three points and must now prepare for a difficult meeting with Brazil as it fights for a place in the knockout rounds.
