Hakimi booed in Boston as Morocco all but guaranteed World Cup knockouts
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- Morocco secured a vital 1-0 victory over Scotland at Gillette Stadium, with Ismael Saibari scoring the fastest goal of the World Cup so far after just 69 seconds, boosting Morocco's chances of reaching the last 32 to over 99%.
- Scotland struggled to break through despite a strong second-half effort and appeals for a penalty, leaving them with a 72% chance of qualifying for the knockout stage according to The Athletic’s model.
- Morocco currently lead Group C with four points, followed by Scotland on three, with both teams set to face Haiti and Brazil respectively in their final group matches on June 24.
- Scotland fans booed Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi throughout the match, amid his ongoing legal trial on rape charges, which he has denied and expressed readiness to face.
- Analysts highlighted Morocco’s attacking chemistry, particularly between Saibari and Brahim Diaz, while Scotland’s penalty appeals were controversially dismissed, leaving their progression hopes dependent on the outcome against Brazil.
