Scotland denied clear penalty in World Cup loss to Morocco as McTominay fumes at VAR

Scotland suffered a 1-0 defeat to Morocco in their 2026 World Cup group opener in Boston, with the result made all the more bitter by a controversial VAR decision that denied them what many believe was a clear penalty.

Scott McTominay was the centre of the flashpoint, bundled over inside the 18-yard box after a challenge from Morocco’s Neil El Aynaoui. VAR reviewed the incident and ruled that El Aynaoui had made contact with the ball, but replays cast serious doubt on that conclusion.

ITV referee analyst Christina Unkel was unequivocal in her assessment. “The first thing you’re looking for as VAR is any touch on that ball and the answer is no,” she said. “We saw that second replay there and exactly what I was looking for — there was no contact on that ball. There is a trip up from behind, contact on the left lower leg.”

Unkel went further, placing responsibility on both VAR and the on-field referee. “For this, I do think there is a missed incident from the VAR to recommend a penalty as well as the referee to not make a decision on penalty. I know this referee is calling a more physical game but it is a very clear penalty in my opinion.”

Aside from the penalty controversy, Scotland struggled to create meaningful chances against the Africa Cup of Nations holders, who were largely comfortable throughout and deserved their victory on the balance of play. Steve Clarke’s side now face a difficult path through the group after failing to take anything from their opening fixture.

Morocco, buoyed by a disciplined defensive display and the quality to threaten on the counter, will take confidence into their next group game. For Scotland, the sense of injustice over the VAR call will linger, with McTominay — one of their most influential players — visibly frustrated at the final whistle.