BOSTON: Ismael Saibari netted the quickest goal of the World Cup so far, finding the back of the net after just 71 seconds, as Morocco secured a 1-0 victory over Scotland on Friday, moving closer to a spot in the knockout rounds.
Fast Start for Morocco
Saibari, who also scored in Morocco's opening 1-1 draw with Brazil, produced a clinical finish early in the match to settle a fiercely contested and physical encounter witnessed by 64,146 fans at Gillette Stadium near Boston. The 25-year-old, born in Spain and raised in Belgium, is reportedly on the verge of a 55 million-euro ($63 million) transfer from Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven to Bayern Munich. His impressive strike past goalkeeper Angus Gunn highlighted why he attracts such attention, and it was evident that Scotland lacked similar quality in the opposition box, underscoring Morocco's world ranking of fifth compared to Scotland's 40th.
Morocco's Path to Knockouts
With four points from two matches, Morocco is well-positioned to advance to the last 32, aiming to at least equal their historic semi-final run in Qatar in 2022. However, it was a disappointing evening for Scotland and their large fan base in Boston, as the team rarely tested Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. Scotland's labored 1-0 win over Haiti in their opening game—their first World Cup victory since 1990—had provided hope, but they failed to build on it.
Another win would have secured progress from Group C, but Scotland's chances remain uncertain ahead of their next match against Brazil in Miami next Wednesday. Morocco, whose captain Achraf Hakimi started hours after it was confirmed he must stand trial in France on rape charges, will face Haiti in Atlanta next.
Scots Lack Cutting Edge
Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi fielded an unchanged starting lineup following the Brazil clash, while opposite number Steve Clarke made three changes, reinforcing his defense by dropping striker Lawrence Shankland and bringing in defender Kieran Tierney to form a back five. However, this proved futile as Morocco took the lead almost from kickoff. Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz provided the assist, and Grant Hanley played Saibari onside as he latched onto a ball over the top, controlled it, and rifled it high into the net.
Morocco, who beat Scotland 3-0 in their 1998 World Cup meeting, threatened to overrun their opponents whenever they attacked but were wasteful, with Bilal El Khannouss squandering a good chance on 36 minutes. Scotland's attack was lackluster, and it took until first-half stoppage time for them to create any danger—a cross from skipper Andy Robertson that John McGinn couldn't convert. The first half ended without Bounou making a save.
Second Half Struggles
Morocco hit the woodwork five minutes into the second half when Saibari met a cutback from El Khannouss, and his attempt deflected off Jack Hendry onto the bar. Moments later, Gunn made a fine stop to deny an El Khannouss header from a corner taken by Hakimi, who was regularly booed by the crowd. Morocco seemed content to see out the game, absorbing Scotland's pressure. Ryan Christie fired over on 64 minutes after being set up by Scott McTominay, who hit the side-netting late on, but a Scotland goal remained elusive.
