Morocco beat Scotland to boost their knock out place hopes in Group C

Morocco strengthened their grip on a place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a disciplined 1-0 victory over Scotland in a fiercely contested Group C encounter on Friday.

An early goal from Ismael Saibari proved enough to separate the two sides in a match dominated by defensive resilience, contentious refereeing decisions and Scotland’s relentless search for an equaliser.

The Atlas Lions made the perfect start, taking the lead after just two minutes. Brahim Díaz produced a defence-splitting through ball that released Saibari into the penalty area, and the midfielder made no mistake, driving a powerful finish into the roof of the net to give Morocco the dream opening.

Morocco looked composed for much of the first half but missed an opportunity to extend their advantage in the 36th minute when Bilal El Khannouss fired over the crossbar from close range after finding space inside the box.

Scotland refused to be discouraged and thought they had several opportunities to earn a penalty. Their first appeal came in first-half stoppage time, prompting a lengthy Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review. However, after consulting the pitch-side monitor, the referee ruled there had been no foul.

The Scottish side continued to press after the interval and saw another penalty appeal turned down in the 49th minute, with the referee again standing by his original decision following consultation.

As the match entered its closing stages, Scotland piled on the pressure in pursuit of an equaliser. Their frustration grew in the 82nd minute when a third strong appeal for a penalty was waved away, leaving the players visibly disappointed.

Morocco almost wrapped up the contest deep into stoppage time when Chemsdine Talbi fired narrowly over the crossbar, but the single goal was ultimately enough to secure all three points.

The victory lifts Morocco to second place in Group C, with same points with Brazil who are on top on goal difference after beating Haiti 3-0. More importantly, it places the Atlas Lions in a commanding position to qualify for the Round of 32 with one group game remaining.

For Scotland, the defeat leaves their qualification hopes hanging in the balance, with little margin for error in their remaining fixture.

Jamaldeen Wiayuka

See Full Bio