While none of the sides were able to score in the most part of the match, an early strike just after the kick off have secured a 1-0 win for Morocco. Ismael Saibari continued his sensational form by scoring inside two minutes, powering Morocco to a narrow 1-0 victory over Scotland in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C clash at Gillette Stadium.
The 25-year-old attacking midfielder, who is on the verge of completing a move to Bayern Munich from PSV, produced a superb finish just 71 seconds into the match. Receiving a pass from Brahim Diaz, Saibari timed his run perfectly and unleashed a powerful strike that left Scotland's goalkeeper with no chance, marking the fastest goal of Morocco’s World Cup history.
Morocco edge Scotland 1-0 as Saibari strikes early to record fastest goal in World Cup history
Morocco controlled much of the early play and defended resolutely as Scotland pushed for an equalizer in the second half. Despite late pressure from the Tartan Army and claims for penalties, the Atlas Lions held firm to secure all three points. Saibari, who also scored against Brazil in Morocco’s previous group match, delivered another standout performance with a goal, chance creation, and strong passing accuracy.
Following the match, fans hailed him as the man of the match, with his display boosting his growing reputation ahead of the Bayern switch. The win gives Morocco a strong start in Group C, building on their impressive run to the semi-finals in 2022. Scotland, despite a spirited effort, will need to regroup quickly as the tournament progresses. This is Morocco’s first win of the 2026 edition of the World Cup after they were held to a 1-1 draw against Carlo Ancelotti's squad in the opener.
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