Ismael Saibari has continued his outstanding start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, delivering another influential performance as Morocco secured a key victory over Scotland in Group C.
The Moroccan midfielder, who scored the fastest goal of this edition of the tournament so far against the same opposition, was once again at the centre of attention after being named Man of the Match for a second consecutive game.
Saibari’s performances have played a major role in Morocco’s strong start to the competition, with the Atlas Lions collecting four points from their opening matches and currently sitting at the top of the group, pending Brazil’s response against Haiti.
Morocco’s display against Scotland was described as dominant, with the team creating several clear chances that could have extended their narrow advantage beyond the single goal scored early in the match.
After the final whistle, head coach Mohamed Ouahbi praised both the team’s collective effort and Saibari’s contribution to another important victory.
“It was a big game,” he told beIN Sports, adding that all the Atlas Lions were happy for Saibari.
The midfielder himself expressed satisfaction with Morocco’s position in the group and emphasised the unity within the squad.
“Four points, top of the group, so it was a nice game. We have the same goal and same dream, we work together and we are like a family. We always want to win every game,” Saibari said.
His comments reflect a growing confidence within the Moroccan camp, where team spirit and tactical discipline have been key factors in their early success at the tournament.
Saibari’s back-to-back Man of the Match awards place him in a unique position at this World Cup, as no other player has managed to achieve the same distinction in the opening two group stage fixtures.
The 25-year-old attacking midfielder is rapidly emerging as one of the standout performers of the competition, with his influence extending beyond goals to overall creativity and control in midfield.
Statistics further underline his importance to Morocco’s system.
The national team has won eight of their last nine matches in all competitions when Saibari has found the net, with just one draw completing that sequence.
This record highlights not only his individual impact but also his growing status as a decisive figure in Morocco’s attacking structure.
For Morocco, the timing of Saibari’s form could not be better.
With the Atlas Lions aiming to build on their historic run to the semi-finals in Qatar, their midfielder’s performances are adding belief that another deep tournament run is possible.
Their next fixture, scheduled for 24 June at 11pm Moroccan time, will offer another opportunity for Saibari and his teammates to strengthen their position in Group C and move closer to the knockout stages.
