Scotland emerged from a testing afternoon against Morocco with their hopes of reaching the knockout stage still intact, despite suffering a 1-0 defeat in Massachusetts.

The result was far from ideal for Steve Clarke’s side, but the narrow margin of defeat ensured Scotland remained within touching distance of a place in the next round. After conceding within the opening moments, the priority gradually shifted from chasing the game to limiting the damage against a Moroccan team that repeatedly demonstrated its technical quality.

Morocco took the lead after just 70 seconds through Ismael Saibari. Braham Díaz delivered a lofted pass that caught out Grant Hanley, allowing Saibari to break through and finish beyond Angus Gunn with a composed strike. The early goal stunned both the Scotland players and the large travelling support gathered under the Massachusetts sun.

From that point, Morocco controlled long stretches of the first half. Their movement and passing caused Scotland persistent problems, while Clarke’s side struggled to establish any rhythm. Possession was frequently surrendered, and Scotland found it difficult to create meaningful attacking opportunities.

The opening period carried uncomfortable echoes of Scotland’s difficult start against Germany at Euro 2024. On that occasion, they trailed heavily by half-time. This time, however, the scoreline remained manageable despite Morocco creating further openings.

One of the clearest chances arrived after Ryan Christie lost possession too easily, allowing Azzedine Ounahi to send a dangerous ball across goal. Somehow, neither Díaz nor Saibari could apply the finishing touch.

Clarke had surprised many observers with his team selection. Rather than moving to a five-man defensive line, he maintained a back four and deployed Kieran Tierney on the left side of midfield ahead of captain Andy Robertson. The adjustment offered a different shape, although Scotland found little opportunity to settle before falling behind.

As the first half drew to a close, Scotland finally showed signs of attacking intent. A stoppage-time move ended with John McGinn receiving a chance from Robertson’s cross, but the opportunity was miscued.

While Morocco will be satisfied with collecting four points from their opening two matches, there may also be a sense that they failed to fully capitalise on their superiority. Their control of the contest suggested the possibility of a wider margin, yet Scotland remained within striking distance throughout.

For Scotland, that proved significant. Avoiding a heavier defeat preserved a realistic opportunity heading into their final group match in Miami. The importance of goal difference and narrow scorelines now looms large, with qualification still mathematically within reach.

The immediate challenge remains straightforward in theory and difficult in practice. Scotland must now produce the result they need in their final fixture and hope the margins that worked in their favour against Morocco ultimately prove decisive.