Scotland 0-1 Morocco: Ismael Saibari’s goal just 70 seconds into the game was enough to defeat Steve Clarke’s side, who felt they needed two penalties in the second half.
Scotland think they should have given a penalty (Image: Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images)
Scotland suffered a disappointing start to their second World Cup match against Morocco, losing 1-0. But the Tartans, who were twice denied penalties, will no doubt be furious at some controversial decisions.
Morocco took the lead within two minutes with Ismael Saibari scoring the fastest goal of the World Cup so far. Scotland looked shocked but had to hold off a flurry of attacks from Morocco and went into half-time with just a one-goal lead.
Steve Clarke’s side held their breath in the second half but were unable to score an equaliser, despite feeling they should have taken two penalties. Morocco maintained their lead in Group C, playing Brazil and Haiti later on Saturday.
Scotland defeated Haiti 1-0 in their first match and went into the match with a solid foundation to advance to the last 32. Morocco, who haven’t lost in two-and-a-half years, came back from a 1-1 draw with five-time champions Brazil, but they also had experience playing in the scorching sun.
Here are five stories from Boston.
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1. The beginning of a nightmare
Flower of Scotland’s frenetic performance lasted almost as long as their clean sheet. Morocco took the lead with 70 seconds left when Saibari beat Angus Gunn, blaming a disjointed defense.
It was all too easy for the African champions as the striker slipped in behind after Grant Hanley darted out at centre-back for offside. Brahim Dias was once again a contributor, just as he was against Brazil, and a flurry of chances for Morocco to make it 2-0 after that suggested it was going to be a long night in the Boston heat.
How far will Scotland go in the World Cup? Let us know your predictions in the comments section.
Ismael Saibari’s goal was the fastest ever at a World Cup (Image: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
2. Scotland narrowly avoids unwanted record
In the first 29 games of this year’s World Cup, only Ghana (vs. Panama) did not have a shot on goal in the first half. But now the Tartan Army was minutes away from matching that undesirable record.
McGinn’s wayward shot from close range in first-half stoppage time, followed by Kieran Tierney’s blocked shot moments later, encouraged Clarke before the break. He gave his team credit for staying in the game, but it was a largely bland opening 45 minutes.
Morocco was comfortable and we should have gone further. Still, there was hope for Scotland, but they needed to take the game to their opponents.
3. Scotland furious over double VAR decision
John McGinn goes down after a challenge from Neir El Ainaoui (Image: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Scotland head to Morocco in the second period with newfound confidence. Three minutes after the restart, McGinn twisted his way past Neil El Ainaoui and fell in the box.
Referee Ilgiz Tantashev rejected Scotland’s appeal and, with VAR’s consent, made a quick decision that is typical of this tournament. Replays showed El Ainaoui did not touch the ball but made contact with McGinn, leaving Scotland players and staff perplexed as they watched the replay from across the pond shortly after midnight.
Their anger would have increased tenfold if Gan had not made a good save just seconds later as Morocco tried to fight back from behind. Scotland were furious again in the closing stages with Scott McTominay huddled in the penalty area, but VAR once again agreed with the referee’s on-field decision.
Scott McTominay was next to fall (Image: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
4. The challenges of forming Clark
For most of his reign at Hampden Park, Clarke was committed to playing a five-man defence. However, following the disastrous defeat at Euro 2024, the Scottish manager switched to a four-man backline and stuck to that style all the way to the World Cup.
But the result is sure to spark a debate over whether Clark should return to his old form for Wednesday’s game against Brazil. Morocco’s opener could have been prevented by having an extra defender at the back, but the attacking benefits of the change in formation are yet to be seen as Scotland had significantly fewer shots than their opponents in both games.
Steve Clarke changes Scotland’s formation after Euro 2024 (Image: FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)
5. Mighty Morocco sends reminders
For all Scotland’s shortcomings, Morocco once again impressed. With four points, coach Mohamed Ouabi’s team almost sealed their ticket to the finals.
Much like the government of Walid Reglagui in Qatar, it will present a severe test to any unlucky opponent. They have a good chance of pushing Brazil into the lead.
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