FIFA World Cup: Morocco's Ismael Saibari scripts history, becomes first African player to ...

Morocco striker Ismael Saibari added a historic milestone to his name by scoring another goal in the FIFA World Cup group-stage clash against Haiti. He became the first African player to score in each of his team's three group-stage matches at a World Cup.Morocco faced Haiti in a hard-fought contest that ended in a 4-2 victory for the North African side. The Group C showdown proved to be an entertaining affair. Despite falling behind twice during the game, Morocco fought back on both occasions and eventually secured the win. The victory confirmed their qualification for the Round of 32 as group runners-up.

Saibari also became the first African player since Asamoah Gyan to score three goals in a single FIFA World Cup edition.

Gyan achieved the feat for Ghana in 2010.Morocco suffered an early setback as Haiti took the lead just 10 minutes into the match. Lenny Joseph's finish from Jean-Kevin's cross also marked Haiti's first World Cup goal in 52 years.Morocco equalised in the 39th minute through Achraf Hakimi, who converted the rebound after Bilal El Khannouss' effort was saved.However, Haiti regained the lead before halftime. Wilson Isidor produced a stunning long-range strike in the 43rd minute to make it 2-1.

But that was the end of it as Morocco responded immediately, with Saibari finishing a well-placed cross from Hakimi in stoppage time to level the score at 2-2 heading into the break.Morocco dominated possession in the second half but struggled to break down Haiti's defence until the 78th minute. Soufiane Rahimi and Gessime Yassine added fresh energy to the attack, with Rahimi scoring from a corner to put Morocco ahead for the first time in the match.Haiti pressed for an equaliser, but Morocco sealed the victory in the 89th minute. Rahimi provided the assist for Yassine, who calmly finished into an empty net to make it 4-2.