Scotland began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Haiti. While the performance was not particularly convincing, securing all three points was the most important objective and has put the Scots in a favorable position in Group G.
Their second match presents a much tougher challenge against Morocco, one of the most improved national teams in world football in recent years.
Despite entering the match as underdogs, Scotland have reasons to believe they can earn a positive result.
Morocco also impressed in their opening fixture by holding Brazil to a draw. However, there are several factors that suggest this may not be a straightforward victory for the North African side.
Firstly, Morocco’s record against European opponents has been inconsistent. Secondly, Scotland arrive in excellent form, having won three consecutive matches, including victories over Haiti, Curacao, and Bolivia.
More importantly, Scotland have covered the Asian handicap in all three of those wins and have lost only once in their last five meetings with African opposition.
With both teams already having points on the board, a cautious and tactical contest is expected.
Recent Form
Scotland
- Beat Haiti 1-0 in their World Cup opener.
- Won their last three matches in all competitions.
- Recorded victories over Haiti, Curacao, and Bolivia.
- Kept clean sheets in their last two matches.
Morocco
- Earned an impressive draw against Brazil.
- Have won only one of their last four matches against European teams.
- Continue to rely on a disciplined defensive structure.
Team News
Scotland
Scott McKenna is unavailable due to injury.
Morocco
No major injury concerns reported, and Morocco are expected to field their strongest available lineup.
Predicted Lineups
Scotland
Gunn; Hickey, Hendry, Hanley, Robertson; Doak, Ferguson, McTominay, McGinn; Adams, Shankland.
Morocco
Bono; Hakimi, Diop, Riad, Mazraoui; El Aynaoui, Bouaddi; Díaz, Ounahi, El Khannouss; Saibari.
Betting Analysis
Asian Handicap: Morocco -0.75
Although Morocco are favored, the three-quarter-goal handicap appears demanding against a Scotland side currently enjoying excellent form.
Scotland have won three consecutive matches and have consistently exceeded expectations against comparable opposition.
Recommended Pick: Scotland +0.75
Over/Under Goals: 2.25
Scotland’s defense has been particularly solid, keeping clean sheets in each of their last two matches.
Morocco’s last two matches have also produced no more than two total goals.
With both sides likely prioritizing avoiding defeat, this fixture has the profile of a low-scoring contest.
Recommended Pick: Under 2.25 Goals
Cards Market
Disciplinary trends point toward a relatively controlled game.
- Only one of Scotland’s last five matches produced more than four cards.
- Morocco’s opening World Cup match featured just two cards.
A moderate card total is therefore expected.
Recommended Pick: Under 3.5 Cards
Best Bets
- Scotland +0.75 Asian Handicap
- Under 2.25 Goals
- Under 3.5 Cards
Predicted Score
Scotland 0-0 Morocco
Scotland’s organization and defensive discipline should make them difficult to break down, while Morocco may adopt a pragmatic approach after taking a valuable point from Brazil. A draw would be a satisfactory result for both teams and appears the most likely outcome.