Morocco FIFA World Cup 2026 squad injury concerns have escalated just days before their high-profile group stage opener against Brazil at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, adding tactical uncertainty to an already high-pressure fixture.
Winger Abde Ezzouzali has missed this month’s friendly game against Norway with a knee injury. His departure takes away an important attacking outlet who has been known to be very fast, direct and able to cut wide. Amine Sbai has been called up in response, but has not had the same amount of experience internationally as the outgoing player. Defensive stability has also suffered due to the absence of Nayef Aguerd who has been out since March after undergoing groin surgery.
He wouldn’t be fit enough to start a tournament even with rehabilitation. Without him, Morocco have to be against a marvellous attacking side, and they will now have to play one of the world’s most demanding defensive roles, going to the bows with Marwane Saadane. Mohamed Ouahbi will find himself in a difficult situation as the Moroccans are facing the injury crunch in the lead up to encountering Brazil in the World Cup.
Losing a starter at either end of the line (winger and central) will create a balance problem on both sides from a competitive perspective. Morocco will need to tweak their shape, probably focusing on building tight defensive lines and attacking through the transition to make up for the lack of physical depth.
