The goals, minute by minute
- 2'Ismael SaibariGoal · 0-1
The preview
Written before the match. We've left it as it was, even where the game said otherwise.
Context
Scotland (36th FIFA) vs Morocco (11th FIFA)
Level of the teams
- Scotland: an organized, battling block, dreaming of reaching the knockouts for the first time at a World Cup.
- Morocco: Qatar 2022 semifinalist and African continental champion, a top squad (Hakimi, Brahim, En-Nesyri). Africa's biggest power.
Key factors
- Morocco far superior in individual pedigree and thrust.
- Scotland will bet on defensive solidity and set pieces.
- Morocco fights for 2nd place with Brazil atop the group.
Prediction
Most likely result: 2-0 Morocco (alternative: 1-0 Morocco)
- Scotland win: 20%
- Draw: 28%
- Morocco win: 52%
Player to watch: Achraf Hakimi, thrust and threat down the right.
Final verdict, Confidence: medium-high
Morocco is clearly superior and the favorite. Scotland is organized and can make it tricky, but a Moroccan win is the most likely scenario.