Morocco strike early to edge Scotland: Saibari settles it in the 2nd minute
Ismael Saibari's early goal, set up by Brahim Díaz, hands Morocco a precious Group C win at the 2026 World Cup.
Morocco struck when no one expected it and claimed a precious win over Scotland (0-1) at the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, in a key Group C clash of the 2026 World Cup. Barely two minutes had passed when Ismael Saibari pounced on an assist from Brahim Díaz to beat the Scottish defence and net the game's only goal, an early strike that shaped the entire contest.
With the lead secured from the off, Morocco managed the result with composure. The cards reflected the tension: Issa Diop was booked in the 23rd minute for the Africans, and Scotland captain Andy Robertson saw yellow in the 66th as his side tried in vain to respond to opponents comfortable protecting their advantage.
The Gillette Stadium, a regular home of American football on the outskirts of Boston and one of the major venues in the U.S. northeast, hosted an intense World Cup tie in front of 64,146 spectators. Foxborough, with its sporting tradition and football atmosphere, was the perfect setting for one of the day's mild surprises.
Steve Clarke set Scotland up in a 4-4-1-1 with Angus Gunn in goal, the McTominay-McGinn axis in midfield and Che Adams up top, but they lacked the firepower to break down their rivals. Mohamed Ouahbi responded with a high-quality 4-2-3-1, Bono in goal, Achraf Hakimi out wide and a creative trio of Brahim Díaz, Azzedine Ounahi and Bilal El Khannouss behind Saibari.
In the Group C standings, the three points place Morocco in a privileged position in the race for top spot and qualification at this 48-team 2026 World Cup, while Scotland leave empty-handed on their opener and must pick up points soon to stay in contention.