The result lifted Morocco to the top of the Group C standings with four points ahead of Brazil's clash with Haiti later in the day.

Scotland is still a chance of advancing thanks to an opening victory over Haiti, and it pushed hard for an equaliser in the second half against the Atlas Lions, but could not put a shot on target throughout the match.

Scott McTominay went down under a challenge from Neil El Aynaoui in the box during the 80th minute, but penalty claims were waved away, leaving the Scots to accept defeat.

Brahim Diaz delivered a pass down Morocco's right flank to Saibari early on, and he found space between two defenders to drive into the 18-yard box, lifting a a right-footed shot over the right shoulder of Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn.

It was the fastest goal so far at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the second goal in two games for Saibari at the tournament.

Diaz teed up an unmarked Neil El Aynaoui for a 14-yard shot in the 30th minute, but the attempt sailed over the crossbar.

A 36th-minute collision in midfield led to a half-chance for Morocco's Bilal El Khannouss, but his shot from the left side of the penalty area was too high.

Scotland had a rare dangerous first-half attack in the first minute of stoppage-time.

Andy Robertson sent a cross from the left side toward John McGinn at the far post, but McGinn was unable to make clean contact with his volleyed attempt.

In the 50th minute, El Khannouss dribbled down the left flank and delivered a cross into the box. Saibari appeared to be in position for a clear strike at goal, but Jack Hendry blocked the shot, which ricocheted on to the crossbar and away.

Moments later, Gunn saved a header by El Khannouss from a corner kick as Scotland looked like conceding for a second time.

Scotland pressed more effectively as the second half progressed, and Ryan Christie fired over the bar in the 64th minute, but that was as good as it got as Morocco saw out the win.

Scotland will conclude its Group C matches next Thursday (AEST) against Brazil in Florida while Morocco will play Haiti simultaneously in Atlanta.