Morocco climbed to the top of Group C at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after defeating Scotland 1-0 at Boston Stadium, Boston.
The Atlas Lions needed just two minutes to seize control of the contest, and despite Scotland’s late pressure, Walid Regragui’s side produced another disciplined display to earn a vital three points and move onto four points, temporarily leading the group.
Just two minutes into the match, Ibrahim Díaz unlocked the Scottish defence with a perfectly weighted through ball that released Ismael Saibari, who raced clear before firing an unstoppable finish into the roof of the net beyond goalkeeper Angus Gunn.
The goal not only handed Morocco an early lead but also secured Saibari a place in World Cup history.
The PSV Eindhoven midfielder scored the fastest goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far, while also registering the fastest goal ever scored by Morocco in FIFA World Cup history.
Morocco remained the more dangerous side after the restart and came close to doubling their advantage on several occasions.
Saibari nearly added his second of the evening after a flowing attack orchestrated by Bilal El Khannouss, only to see his deflected effort crash against the crossbar.
Moments later, El Khannouss himself almost found the scoresheet, meeting Achraf Hakimi’s dangerous corner at the near post, but Gunn reacted brilliantly to preserve Scotland’s hopes.
With time running out, Scotland threw numbers forward in search of an equaliser.
Captain John McGinn, Ben Doak, and Scott McTominay all tested Morocco’s defensive resolve during an intense final spell, but the Atlas Lions remained organised and composed at the back.
The Moroccan defence successfully absorbed the late pressure, preserving a valuable clean sheet and sealing an important victory that strengthens their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds.
The result moves Morocco to the summit of Group C with four points after two matches, placing them in a strong position ahead of the final round of group-stage fixtures.
For Scotland, the defeat leaves their qualification hopes under increasing pressure, with a positive result now likely required in their final group match to keep their World Cup campaign alive.
Credit Photo : FRMF
