Scotland's dream of reaching the knockout rounds of a major tournament for the first time took a serious hit on Saturday, as Morocco claimed a 1-0 victory at Boston Stadium in FIFA World Cup Group C — a result made all the more bitter by two penalty appeals that were waved away.

Ismael Saibari settled the match inside two minutes, punishing a lapse in concentration from Grant Hanley with a clinical finish into the top corner. The goal, timed at just 70 seconds, set the tone for an evening Scotland never fully recovered from.

A slow start and a sharp Saibari

Steve Clarke's side were visibly rattled after conceding so early, and struggled to impose themselves in Boston. Saibari came close to doubling the advantage shortly after his opener, leaving Scotland chasing shadows in the opening exchanges.

It took until the stroke of half-time for Scotland to muster their first meaningful attempt — and even then, a Nathan Patterson delivery was met by John McGinn, who could only send it high and wide.

Penalty controversy dominates the second half

Scotland's frustration mounted after the restart. McGinn was brought down inside the area by Neil El Aynaoui in the 49th minute, but referee awarded no penalty, with the challenge ruled a fair one.

In the 64th minute, Ryan Christie had space to strike from 20 yards but fired over the crossbar — squandering what should have been the equaliser after an excellent lay-off from Scott McTominay.

The Napoli midfielder was then the centre of the evening's most contentious moment. McTominay went down under a challenge from El Aynaoui in the 82nd minute, but once again the penalty appeals were dismissed. Roy Keane, commenting for ITV, was unconvinced: