World Cup 2026: Scotland 0-1 Morocco Player Ratings

Morocco took a major step towards the World Cup knockout rounds with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Scotland in Group C. The Atlas Lions needed just 71 seconds to find the breakthrough, with Ismael Saibari continuing his outstanding tournament by scoring the only goal of the match. The result moved Morocco onto four points from two games and left them in a strong position ahead of their final group match against Haiti.

Match Report

The North Africans made the perfect start in Boston when Brahim Diaz split the Scottish defence with an incisive pass and Ismael Saibari raced through before firing beyond goalkeeper Angus Gunn. The goal was the fastest of the tournament so far and immediately put Morocco in control.

Morocco dominated much of the first half through their superior movement and technical quality. Bilal El Khannouss and Azzedine Ounahi controlled possession in midfield, while Achraf Hakimi and Noussair Mazraoui provided attacking width from full-back.

Scotland improved after the interval and pushed for an equaliser, but Mohamed Ouahbi’s side remained disciplined defensively. Saibari nearly doubled the lead early in the second half when his effort struck the crossbar following a deflection. Despite late Scottish pressure, Morocco held firm to secure a valuable victory.

Morocco Player Ratings

Goalkeeper

Yassine Bounou – 6.5

Had a relatively quiet evening but remained composed whenever Scotland threatened.

Defence

Noussair Mazraoui – 7.3

Excellent defensively and contributed significantly to Morocco’s build-up play.

Chadi Riad – 7.3

Strong in central defence and dealt comfortably with Scotland’s aerial threat.

Issa Diop – 6.8

A solid display despite picking up a yellow card.

Achraf Hakimi – 6.9

The captain was energetic as always and helped Morocco maintain control down the right flank.

Midfield

Neil El Aynaoui – 6.9

Worked tirelessly and helped Morocco dominate the midfield battle.

Azzedine Ounahi – 6.7

Showed his usual composure in possession and kept the team ticking over.

Ayyoub Bouaddi – 6.5

A disciplined performance that helped Morocco maintain balance.

Brahim Diaz – 7.3

Provided the assist for the decisive goal and caused Scotland problems with his movement and creativity.

Bilal El Khannouss – 6.8

Worked hard between the lines and linked play effectively.

Attack

Ismael Saibari – 7.8

The star of the show. Scored the winning goal after just 71 seconds and remained Morocco’s biggest attacking threat throughout.

Substitutes

Soufiane Rahimi – 6.5

Added energy in the closing stages.

Chemsdine Talbi – 6.5

Helped Morocco see out the match comfortably.

Ayoub Amraoui Echghouyab – 6.4

A steady contribution after coming on.

Samir El Mourabet – N/A

Introduced too late to make a significant impact.

Verdict

Saibari once again proved decisive, while Diaz and Mazraoui were among Morocco’s standout performers. The Atlas Lions looked organized, confident and dangerous, and with four points from their opening two matches, they are now well placed to secure a spot in the Round of 32.