Deadspin | Ismael Saibar’s early goal proves enough as Morocco downs Scotland

Ismael Saibari fired in a goal within the second minute, sending Morocco on the best way to a 1-0 win over Scotland on Friday in World Cup play at Foxborough, Mass.

The outcome lifts Morocco (1-0-1, 4 factors) to the highest of the Group C standings, at the least till Brazil (0-0-1, 1 level) face Haiti (0-1-0, 0 factors) later Friday night time in Philadelphia.

Scotland (1-1-0, 3 factors) retain an opportunity of advancing due to their opening victory over Haiti. They pushed arduous for an equalizer within the second half however by no means had a shot on course within the match.

Scotland’s Scott McTominay went down underneath a problem from Neil El Aynaoui within the field in the course of the eightieth minute, however no foul was referred to as.

Within the early going, Brahim Diaz delivered a cross down Morocco’s proper flank to Saibari, who discovered area between two defenders and entered the ultimate third of the pitch unmarked. Saibari drove within the 18-yard field with the ball and lifted a right-footed shot over the correct shoulder of Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn.

It was the quickest goal within the 2026 World Cup and the second goal in two video games on the occasion for Saibari.

The opening 20 minutes had been dominated by Morocco, who maintained 63% possession. The Atlas Lions are attempting to construct on their semifinal look on the 2022 World Cup.

Diaz teed up an open Neil El Aynaoui for a 14-yard shot within the thirtieth minute, however El Aynaoui sailed his try far over the crossbar.

A Thirty sixth-minute collision at midfield led to a half-chance for Morocco’s Bilal El Khannouss, whose shot from the left facet of the penalty space was too excessive.

Scotland had a uncommon harmful first-half assault within the first minute of stoppage time. Andy Robertson despatched a cross from the left facet towards John McGinn on the far submit, however McGinn was unable to make clear contact on his volley try.

Within the fiftieth minute, El Khannouss dribbled down the left flank and delivered a cross to the center of the field. Saibari seemed to be in place for a transparent strike at goal, however Jack Hendry blocked the shot, which ricocheted onto the crossbar and away.

Moments later, Gunn saved a header by El Khannouss off a nook kick.

Scotland pressed extra successfully as the second half progressed, and a takeaway excessive up the pitch led to an 18-yard shot by Ryan Christie that went over the bar within the sixty fourth minute.

Scotland will conclude group play on Wednesday in opposition to Brazil at Miami Gardens, Fla., whereas Morocco will oppose Haiti concurrently in Atlanta.

–Discipline Stage Media