World Cup: Morocco edge Scotland, USA march into last 32, Brazil beat Haiti

The United States booked their place in the last 32 of the World Cup on Friday with a 2-0 victory over Australia, while Brazil rediscovered their scoring form with a dominant win over Haiti.

The result in Seattle sent the co-hosts into the knockout stage with a game to spare, following a strong start to the tournament that has seen them build momentum after an impressive opening win over Paraguay.

A Cameron Burgess own goal in the 11th minute gave the USA an early advantage before Alex Freeman doubled the lead just before half-time, sealing a comfortable victory for Mauricio Pochettino’s side.

Mr Pochettino praised his team’s performance, saying, “It was a fantastic game again, very good first half. I think we dominated the game against a very tough team.”

Australia coach Tony Popovic, however, admitted his side fell short, blaming a lack of intensity for the defeat.

“We were slow to every ball, and we couldn’t really wrestle back any momentum,” Mr Popovic said.

Brazil overpower Haiti, Morocco edge Scotland

Brazil secured a convincing 3-0 win over Haiti in Philadelphia, with Matheus Cunha scoring twice and Vinicius Junior also getting on the scoresheet in a one-sided encounter.

The victory ended Haiti’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage and moved Brazil level on points with Morocco at the top of Group C, although the South Americans lead on goal difference.

Mr Cunha’s brace underlined Brazil’s attacking strength, while an injury scare for winger Raphinha raised concerns after he was forced off in the first half following a challenge.

Morocco also claimed their first win of the tournament with a narrow 1-0 victory over Scotland in Foxborough.

Ismael Saibari scored the decisive goal in the second minute with a powerful strike that settled the contest early.

Morocco will face Haiti in their final group match, while Brazil are set to meet Scotland in their concluding fixture.

Scotland midfielder John McGinn acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying his side must improve significantly to have any chance of progression.

“We will need to be at our best. We know what we need to do to try to get through to the next round,” Mr McGinn said.

Iran raise complaints over logistics

Off the pitch, Iranian football officials criticised their treatment at the tournament, describing it as a setback for fair competition.

The Iranian federation claimed travel arrangements had been restricted ahead of their upcoming match against Belgium, raising concerns over preparation conditions.

The US authorities have reportedly pushed back against the claims.