Scotland left their World Cup clash with Morocco feeling hard done by after a narrow 1-0 defeat that could have looked very different had key decisions gone their way.
Steve Clarke’s side fell behind after just 70 seconds when Ismael Saibari capitalised on a defensive lapse to score what proved to be the winning goal. Despite the nightmare start, Scotland refused to fold and battled their way back into the contest against one of the tournament favourites.
The Tartan Army were left furious by a series of controversial refereeing decisions that appeared to go against them. Two strong penalty appeals were waved away, while Morocco defender Issa Diop escaped with only a yellow card after hauling down Che Adams as the striker threatened to break through on goal.
Those moments could have completely changed the outcome of the match.
Although Morocco enjoyed long spells of possession, Scotland grew stronger as the game progressed. The introduction of Ben Doak added pace and urgency, helping Clarke’s men push the African giants onto the back foot during the closing stages.
Scotland’s experienced squad showed tremendous character after conceding so early and remained firmly in the contest until the final whistle. Against a side ranked among the world’s best, they were just one moment away from rescuing a valuable result.
The defeat leaves Scotland with work to do, but their World Cup hopes remain alive heading into a huge final group clash with Brazil. With qualification still within reach and frustration over the officiating lingering, Clarke’s side will feel they have every reason to believe they can produce something special.
