FIFA World Cup 2026: Morocco's Saibari makes history during clash against Haiti, makes Africa proud
Atlanta, June 25
Morocco's Ismael Saibari made history during the FIFA World Cup group stage clash against Haiti, as he scored yet another goal in his third successive appearance in this tournament so far.
Morocco secured a hard-fought 4-2 victory over Haiti in an entertaining FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C clash in Atlanta, coming from behind twice to confirm their place in the World Cup Round of 32 as group runners-up.
As per OptaJoe, Saibari is the first African player to score in each of his team's three group stage matches in the World Cup, having found the net against Brazil and Scotland as well.
He is also the first African player to score three goals in a single FIFA World Cup since Asamoah Gyan did it for Ghana in 2010.
Coming to the match, Haiti made a dream start, shocking Morocco in the 10th minute. Lenny Joseph reacted quickly inside the box after a dangerous cross from Jean-Kevin Duverne, with the ball deflecting off goalkeeper Yassine Bounou for an own goal to give Haiti a 1-0 lead. Notably, the goal marked Haiti's first at the World Cup in 52 years.
Morocco pushed forward in search of an equaliser and eventually found it in the 39th minute when Achraf Hakimi scored from close range after Bilal El Khannouss' effort was saved and rebounded into his path.
The match remained open and dramatic, and Haiti struck again just before the break. Wilson Isidor produced a stunning long-range curling effort in the 43rd minute to restore Haiti's lead at 2-1. However, Morocco responded almost immediately, with Ismael Saibari finishing a well-placed cross from Hakimi in stoppage time to level the match at 2-2 going into halftime.
Morocco dominated possession in the second half, controlling around 70% of the ball and creating several chances, but Haiti defended resiliently with goalkeeper Johny Placide making key saves to keep the score level. Despite their control, Morocco had to rely on tactical changes to break through.
The turning point came after substitutions around the 70th minute, with Soufiane Rahimi and Gessime Yassine added to increase attacking intensity. Rahimi made an instant impact, scoring in the 78th minute after pouncing on a loose ball from a corner to put Morocco ahead for the first time.
As Haiti pushed forward in search of an equaliser, Morocco struck on the counter in the 89th minute. Rahimi turned provider this time, delivering a low cut-back for Gessime Yassine to finish into an empty net, sealing a 4-2 win.
Morocco finished strongly with 22 shots and 11 on target the FIFA website, while Haiti exited the tournament with pride after a spirited performance.
— ANI
Reader Comments
That Haiti goal after 52 years was such a beautiful moment. The passion, the history. And then Morocco coming back twice... what a match! Saibari is incredible but I'm also amazed by Haiti's fight. They may have lost but they showed real spirit. Football wins today.
Finally an African team that knows how to finish! Too many times we see African sides dominate possession but lose composure in front of goal. Morocco with 22 shots and 11 on target - that's clinical. Reminds me of how India needs to develop that killer instinct in our own football. Come on, we have talent too! 🏆
Saibari equalling Asamoah Gyan's record is huge. But let's be real - Morocco's defense looked shaky at times against Haiti. If they want to go deep, they can't concede two goals to a team that hadn't scored in 52 years. Great comeback though, and the subs by the coach were spot on. Round of 32 awaits! 🇲🇦
As a football fan in India, I love seeing African teams shine! Morocco's journey from 2022 semis to now is inspirational. Saibari is a star. But I do wish FIFA would give more opportunities to teams from Asia too - we need more representation. Still, kudos to Morocco for making history! Feel proud for the whole continent. 🤩⚽
Saibari is unplayable right now. Scoring against Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti shows consistency. But I'll be honest - Morocco need to tighten up at the back
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