sports
Saibari strikes after 70 seconds as Morocco puncture Scotland's World Cup party
Scotland would have taken this outcome after 70 seconds. Ismael Saibiri had fired this highly-rated Moroccan team ahead. Men in kilts gulped under the blazing Massachusetts sun. Scotland may even privately have taken this outcome before a ball was kicked. Avoidance of a comprehensive defeat against Brazil will leave them with at least a fighting chance of becoming the first Scotland team to progress to the knockout phase of a major tournament.
TL;DR
- Morocco scored within 70 seconds via Ismael Saibiri.
- Scotland struggled in the first half, showing jittery play and a lack of attacking impetus.
- Morocco displayed greater urgency and skill, creating more chances but failing to convert their superiority into more goals.
- Scotland improved in the second half but still looked blunt in attack.
- Morocco's inability to be more ruthless and Scotland's late pressure meant the game remained in the balance.
- The outcome leaves Scotland with a chance to qualify for the knockout stages, depending on other results and their performance against Brazil.