Morocco’s preparations for their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal have suffered a major setback after Ismael Saibari’s injury ruled the influential forward out of Thursday’s clash against France. While the absence of Morocco’s standout performer is a significant blow, head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has reassured fans that the Bayern Munich signing is expected to recover in time if the Atlas Lions progress further in the competition.
Ismael Saibari injury sidelines Morocco’s biggest attacking threat
Ismael Saibari’s injury occurred during Morocco’s convincing 3-0 Round of 16 victory over Canada when the forward was forced off after just 22 minutes with discomfort in his hamstring.
Medical examinations, including an MRI conducted after Morocco arrived in Boston, confirmed a hamstring strain. Speaking ahead of the quarterfinal, Mohamed Ouahbi revealed that the match against France has come too soon for the 25-year-old attacker.
The coach, however, expressed confidence that the Ismael Saibari injury is not serious enough to end the midfielder’s World Cup campaign, offering hope that he could feature again if Morocco advances beyond the last eight.
Also Read | AIFF, ISL clubs adopt new commercial model for 2026-27 season
Morocco prepare alternatives for France showdown
Ismael Saibari’s injury leaves Morocco without one of the tournament’s most productive players. Saibari scored against Brazil, Scotland and Haiti during the group stage before converting the decisive penalty in the Round of 32 shootout victory over the Netherlands.
Soufiane Rahimi, who replaced Saibari against Canada, is now expected to start against France. Ouahbi insisted his squad possesses enough quality and depth to cope with the absence.
The Morocco coach emphasised that substitutes have consistently made important contributions throughout the tournament and believes the collective strength of the squad will be crucial against one of the title favourites.
Also Read | FBI probes Argentine Football Association over money laundering
Bayern Munich signing eyes World Cup return
Ismael Saibari’s injury comes just days after the midfielder completed a reported €50 million transfer to Bayern Munich, making him one of Morocco’s most expensive footballers.
Morocco also received encouraging news in defence, with centre-back Chadi Riad expected to return after missing the Canada fixture through injury.
The Atlas Lions now prepare to face France for the first time since their memorable 2022 World Cup semifinal meeting. Although Saibari will watch from the sidelines, Morocco remain hopeful that their star midfielder could still have a decisive role to play if their remarkable World Cup journey continues.
