Ismael Saibari scored the fastest goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far as Morocco edged Scotland 1-0 in Boston to move within touching distance of the knockout rounds.
The Morocco midfielder struck after just 71 seconds, producing a clinical finish that ultimately separated the sides in a fiercely contested Group C encounter on Friday.
Saibari, who also scored in Morocco’s opening 1-1 draw with Brazil, once again demonstrated why he is one of Europe’s most sought-after talents.
AFP reports that the 25-year-old, born in Spain and raised in Belgium, is on the brink of completing a £47 million move from Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven to German giants Bayern Munich.
His early goal proved decisive as Morocco secured a second positive result from their opening two matches and strengthened their bid to progress to the last 32.
Ranked fifth in the world, the Atlas Lions displayed the composure and cutting edge expected of one of the tournament’s dark horses, while Scotland struggled to create meaningful opportunities despite enjoying periods of possession.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was rarely troubled as the Scots failed to register the attacking quality required to break down a disciplined Moroccan defence.
The result leaves Morocco on four points and firmly in control of their qualification hopes as they seek to replicate — or even surpass — their historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
For Scotland, however, it was a frustrating setback.
The Tartan Army had descended on Boston in large numbers after celebrating a long-awaited World Cup victory over Haiti in their opening fixture — their first triumph at the tournament since 1990.
Another win would have guaranteed progression from the group, but Steve Clarke’s side now face a tense final group match against Brazil in Miami next Wednesday, with their hopes of reaching the knockout stages still hanging in the balance.
Morocco, meanwhile, know that another positive result could secure their place among the last 32 and reinforce their growing reputation as genuine contenders on football’s biggest stage.