Ismael Saibari scored a goal in the second minute, propelling Morocco on its way to a 1-0 victory over Scotland in Friday’s World Cup match in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
This result places Morocco (1-0-1, 4 points) at the top of the Group C standings, at least until Brazil (0-0-1, 1 point) faces Haiti (0-1-0, 0 points) later Friday evening in Philadelphia.
Scotland (1-1-0, 3 points) maintains a chance to progress thanks to its first victory against Haiti. They pushed hard to equalize in the second half but never had a shot on target during the match.
Scotland’s Scott McTominay fell under a challenge from Neil El Aynaoui in the area in the 80th minute, but no foul was called.
Early on, Brahim Diaz made a pass down the Moroccan right flank to Saibari, who found space between two defenders and entered the final third of the field unmarked. Saibari drove into the penalty area with the ball and fired a right-footed shot over the right shoulder of Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn.
It was the fastest goal of the 2026 World Cup and the second goal in two matches at the event for Saibari.
The first 20 minutes were dominated by Morocco, which maintained 63% possession. The Atlas Lions are trying to capitalize on their 2022 World Cup semi-final appearance.
Diaz launched an open El Aynaoui for a 14-yard shot in the 30th minute, but El Aynaoui sent his attempt well over the crossbar.
A collision in midfield in the 36th minute resulted in a half-chance for Moroccan Bilal El Khannouss, whose shot from the left side of the penalty area was too high.
Scotland had a rare dangerous attack in the first half in the first minute of stoppage time. Andy Robertson sent a cross from the left towards John McGinn at the far post, but McGinn was unable to make clean contact on his attempted volley.
In the 50th minute, El Khannouss dribbled down the left flank and delivered a cross into the middle of the area. Saibari appeared to be in position for a clear shot at goal, but Jack Hendry blocked the shot, which ricocheted off the crossbar and away.
Moments later, Gunn saved an El Khannouss header from a corner.
Scotland pressed more effectively as the second half progressed, and a recovery high up the pitch led to Ryan Christie’s 18-yard shot going over the bar in the 64th minute.
Scotland will conclude their group match on Wednesday against Brazil in Miami Gardens, Florida, while Morocco will simultaneously face Haiti in Atlanta.
