Scotland v Morocco - Betting Preview
Scotland’s victory over the weekend gave the Tartan Army a real reason to celebrate. Not only was this the first time Scotland had won a World Cup game since 1990, but it also sent Steve Clarke’s side right to the top of Group C. The team’s performance definitely justified that bank holiday Monday.
An incredible start, but the team are still far from leaving the group stage. Challenging matches against Morocco and then Brazil are on the horizon.
The Group C Situation
Scotland reaching the knockout stages is now definitely a possibility. However, the task grows increasingly tougher with each group game. Scotland face Morocco on Friday at 11.00 pm (UK time). The Atlas Lions are fresh from drawing 1-1 with Brazil, a game that saw them looking like the stronger side for long periods.
Brazil are obviously expected to beat Haiti this weekend. Should Scotland also lose to Morocco, they’ll be knocked down to the 3rd place.
Clearly, the outcome of the weekend’s matches could have a huge bearing on Scotland’s qualification prospects.
- Scotland wins: They move to six points, which would basically guarantee them a spot in the knockout stage. They would become the favourites to finish second in Group C behind Brazil.
- Draw: Scotland would move to four points, and Morocco would move to two. Both teams could still potentially reach the knockout games.
- Morocco wins: Morocco would move to four points and become the favourites to finish Group C in second place.
It’s worth remembering here that the top eight third-place teams will also advance to the knockouts. Historically, four points are often enough to finish among the best third-place teams. So, drawing with Morocco and losing to Brazil could potentially allow Scotland to play beyond Group C.
Match Betting and Alternative Markets
Scotland deserves credit for their opening match, but Morocco are a totally different calibre to Haiti. Not even Brazil could score more than one goal against them.
With all of this in mind, let's take a look at the main betting markets ahead of the second round of Group C matches.
Morocco to win
Morocco’s opening game proved that they’re capable of challenging elite teams. Off the back of this, they’re very likely to beat Scotland.
According to Oddschecker, bookies have:
- Morocco to win at 3/4
- Scotland to win at 19/4
- Draw at 27/10
On paper, Morocco are by far the better team. They’re the current African champions and were semi-finalists in the 2022 World Cup. Their draw against Brazil proves that they’re currently in good fighting shape. Last weekend, Achraf Hakimi created more chances than anyone on the pitch. Morocco also took more shots, and the game finished with almost 50/50 possession.
Scotland’s inconsistent and sometimes fragile defence could crumble against Morocco’s world-class technical attacks.
Under 2.5 goals
Both experts and sportsbooks agree that this match is unlikely to produce more than 2.5 goals.
Both Group C opening matches were low-scorers. Scotland are unlikely to open up and attack recklessly. At the same time, Morocco will be looking to control the game rather than completely overwhelm Scotland.
Both teams know how crucial this fixture is, so they will both prioritise structure.
Therefore, scorelines such as 1-0, 1-1, or 2-1 are most likely.
BTTS
Scotland will try to remain defensively solid. They’ve already won against Haiti, so there’s no incentive for them to open up and challenge Morocco’s formidable backline.
Scotland’s best chance is to draw, so they’ll likely focus on defence to make that happen.
With this, the prospect of both teams scoring narrows significantly.
Player markets
- Achraf Hakimi Anytime Assist - A safe bet, given the three chances the captain made against Brazil.
- Scott McTominay to Be Carded - McTominay only fouled once against Haiti. However, as his defensive duties increase, so does the likelihood of tactical fouls.
Correct score bets
Based on current form, group dynamics, and betting odds, the three most likely outcomes are:
- Morocco 1 - 0 Scotland
- Morocco 2 - 0 Scotland
- Scotland 1 - 1 Morocco
Best Bets
Can Scotland win their second game? Bookmakers don’t think so, meaning betting on a Scotland win could make you a lot of money if it happens.
Here are some of the best bets currently available:
- Recommended bet - Morocco to win @ 3/4 with Quinnbet
- Recommended bet - Under 3.5 goals 2/9 with Bet365
- Recommended bet - Ismael Saibari to score anytime @ 13/8 with Bet365
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