Morocco boosted their World Cup knockout hopes with a narrow but crucial 1-0 win over Scotland, thanks to an explosive start from Ismael Saibari.
The PSV Eindhoven forward — who is edging closer to a blockbuster move to Bayern Munich — stunned the Tartan Army just 72 seconds into the match, scoring the fastest goal of the tournament so far.
It was a dream start for the Atlas Lions and a nightmare for Steve Clarke’s side, who were caught cold almost immediately after kickoff. The victory keeps Morocco firmly in the race for a place in the knockout rounds, while Scotland now face a difficult task to stay alive in Group C.
The decisive moment came in only the second minute when Real Madrid star Brahim Díaz showed his quality. Picking up possession on the right flank, Díaz delivered a perfectly weighted through ball behind Scotland’s backline.
Saibari timed his run brilliantly, raced onto the pass, and smashed a powerful right-footed effort beyond goalkeeper Angus Gunn, leaving him with no chance.
In the other Group C fixture, Brazil national football team returned to winning ways with a dominant 3-0 victory over Haiti national football team.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side looked far sharper after their frustrating opening 1-1 draw with Morocco national football team, making sure there would be no repeat slip-up against World Cup debutants Haiti.
The result puts Brazil back on track in the group, while Morocco’s hard-fought win over Scotland has set up an intriguing battle for qualification.
