World Cup 2026: Ismael Saibari’s early strike fires Morocco past Scotland in tense Group C showdown

Morocco edged Scotland 1-0 in their Group C clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Ismael Saibari’s early strike proving enough to secure all three points in a match defined by missed chances, VAR controversy, and late Scottish pressure.

Lightning start as Saibari punishes Scotland early

The game exploded into life just two minutes in. A perfectly timed through ball from Brahim Díaz carved Scotland open, and Ismael Saibari reacted quickly inside the box, smashing his finish into the roof of the net to give Morocco a dream 1-0 lead.

Morocco waste chances to double their advantage

Morocco nearly made the game comfortable in the 36th minute when Bilal El Khannouss latched onto an inch-perfect pass inside the box, only to fire well over the bar with a golden opportunity to extend the lead.

That miss ensured Scotland remained within touching distance going into the closing stages.

VAR drama and Scotland denied twice

Scotland thought they had earned a route back into the match after a potential penalty incident late in the first half. However, after a VAR review in the 45+2 minute, the referee ruled no penalty.

The frustration continued after the break. In the 49th minute, Scotland appealed again for a penalty following another challenge in the box, but referee Ilgiz Tantashev once more waved play on.

Even in the 82nd minute, when a Scotland attacker appeared to be brought down in a dangerous position, the referee again refused to award a spot kick, leaving the Scottish side visibly frustrated.

Late Moroccan pressure seals a nervy finish

Morocco almost killed the game off in the dying minutes. In the 90+3 minute, Chemsdine Talbi sent a shot narrowly over the crossbar after a sharp attacking move. Moments later, Ayoube Amaimouni curled an effort inches wide of the left post in the 90+5 minute.

Scotland’s final set-piece chance in the 90+7 minute was comfortably cleared, and the match was officially brought to an end in the 90+8 minute.

Morocco go top of Group C

The narrow victory sends Morocco to the top of Group C, ahead of Brazil’s second group match against Haiti, keeping the Atlas Lions firmly on track in the tournament.