Morocco and Brazil secured crucial victories in Group C of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Friday, setting up a thrilling battle for top spot heading into the final round of group matches.
The Atlas Lions defeated Scotland 1-0 at Boston Stadium thanks to an early strike from Ismael Saibari. The midfielder raced beyond the Scottish defence, controlled a perfectly weighted pass from Brahim Diaz and fired past goalkeeper Angus Gunn into the roof of the net.
Saibari’s goal set two records, becoming the fastest goal of the FIFA World Cup 2026 so far and Morocco’s quickest ever strike at the global showpiece.
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Morocco nearly doubled their lead after the break. Saibari struck the crossbar following a brilliant run by Bilal El Khannouss, while Gunn produced another fine save to deny El Khannouss from an Achraf Hakimi corner.
Scotland pushed hard in the final 15 minutes, with John McGinn, Ben Doak and Scott McTominay launching wave after wave of attacks in search of an equaliser. However, Morocco’s defence stood firm to secure a vital three points and move temporarily to the top of Group C with four points.
Later in Philadelphia, Brazil reclaimed first place on goal difference after recording a comfortable 3-0 victory over Haiti, a result that eliminated the Caribbean nation from the tournament.
After a slow start, the five-time world champions broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute when Vinicius Jr’s shot was spilled by Haitian goalkeeper Johnny Placide, allowing Matheus Cunha to tap home from close range.
Brazil doubled their advantage 13 minutes later after Vinicius won possession in midfield and slipped a pass through to Cunha, who blasted the ball into the top corner.
The Seleção added a third goal in first-half stoppage time as Vinicius switched roles from provider to scorer, expertly controlling a pass from Lucas Paquetá before slotting the ball underneath the advancing Placide.
Brazil controlled the second half and came close to extending their lead, with Gabriel Martinelli striking the crossbar and Endrick having a goal ruled out for offside.
Haiti battled bravely but could not find a way past Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson Becker. The defeat means Haiti’s first World Cup appearance since 1974 will end after their final group match against Morocco on 24 June.
Brazil will face Scotland on the same day in Miami, with both Group C fixtures carrying significant implications for the final standings.