Ismael Saibari fired home a goal in the second minute to send Morocco on its way to a 1-0 victory over Scotland on Friday in World Cup play in Foxborough, Mass.
The result puts Morocco (1-0-1, 4 points) atop the Group C standings, at least until Brazil (0-0-1, 1 point) meets Haiti (0-1-0, 0 points) later Friday night in Philadelphia.
Scotland (1-1-0, 3 points) retain a chance to advance thanks to their opening win over Haiti. They pushed hard for an equalizer in the second half but never had a shot on target during the game.
Scotland’s Scott McTominay was hit by a challenge from Neil El Aynaoui in the box in the 80th minute, but no foul was called.
At the start, Brahim Diaz delivered a pass down Morocco’s right flank to Saibari, who found space between two defenders and entered the final third of the pitch unmarked. Saibari raced into the 18-yard box with the ball and lifted a right-footed shot over Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn’s right shoulder.
It was the fastest goal in the 2026 World Cup and the second goal in two games for Saibari.
The opening 20 minutes were dominated by Morocco, who maintained 63% possession. The Atlas Lions are looking to build on their semi-final appearance at the 2022 World Cup.
Diaz teed up an open El Aynaoui for a 14-yard shot in the 30th minute, but El Aynaoui sailed his effort well over the bar.
A clash in midfield in the 36th minute led to a half-chance for Morocco’s Bilal El Khannouss, whose shot from the left side of the penalty area was too high.
Scotland had a rare dangerous attack in the first half in the first minute of stoppage time. Andy Robertson sent a cross from the left towards John McGinn at the far post but McGinn was unable to make clean contact on his volleyed attempt.
In the 50th minute, El Khannouss dribbled down the left flank and delivered a cross in the middle of the box. Saibari looked to be in position for a clear attack on goal but Jack Hendry blocked the shot which ricocheted off the crossbar and away.
Moments later, Gunn saved a header by El Khannouss from a corner.
Scotland pressed more effectively as the second half progressed and a takeaway high up the pitch led to an 18-yard shot by Ryan Christie going over the bar in the 64th minute.
Scotland wraps up group play on Wednesday against Brazil in Miami Gardens, Fla., while Morocco will face Haiti at the same time in Atlanta.
