Ismael Saibari equals Mo Salah World Cup record within two minutes of Scotland vs Morocco

Ismael Saibari put Morocco ahead against Scotland inside 71 seconds and matched a World Cup record held by Mohamed Salah.

The early goal set the tone for a game that quickly became difficult for Scotland, giving Morocco control of the Group C contest.

It also put Saibari into rare company among African players at the World Cup, despite it being only his second appearance on the biggest stage.

Ismael Saibari equals Mohamed Salah World Cup record for Morocco

According to OptaJoe, Saibari became only the second African player to score in each of his first two World Cup appearances, after Mohamed Salah.

Salah scored against Russia and Saudi Arabia at the 2018 World Cup. Saibari has now joined him after scoring against Brazil and Scotland.

The lack of other names on that list makes the achievement sharper. Opta placed Saibari directly beside Salah, with no other African player above or between them.

His goal in Foxborough was a clean, ruthless finish. Brahim Diaz lifted a pass over the Scottish back line, Saibari timed his run and fired past Angus Gunn.

It was also the fastest goal of the 2026 World Cup at that stage. More importantly for Morocco, it changed the game before Scotland had settled.

Scotland vs Morocco result puts Group C pressure on Steve Clarke

Morocco won 1-0 at Foxborough, with Saibari’s early strike proving enough to separate the sides.

The midfielder played 84 minutes and contributed more than the goal. Operating in an advanced role, he pressed high, linked play well and helped protect Morocco’s lead before being substituted late.

Scotland saw more of the ball after halftime and had penalty appeals, but they struggled to create clear chances. Morocco were stronger in duels and managed the game well.

The result moved Morocco to four points from two games, following their opening draw with Brazil. Scotland stayed on three points after their win over Haiti.

That sets up a tense final round of group fixtures. Morocco face Haiti with a place in the knockouts within reach, while Scotland must take something from Brazil to stay in control.

Saibari’s record will draw the headlines, but the impact of his early goal could matter even more in shaping Group C.

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