Just days before their World Cup opener against Brazil, Morocco have been forced into a major reshuffle. Two key members of the squad that helped the Atlas Lions make history in Qatar are out injured, leaving head coach Mohamed Ouahbi with difficult decisions at the worst possible time.
Morocco’s preparations for the biggest tournament in football have suffered a setback with the withdrawals of Nayef Aguerd and Abde Ezzalzouli. Both players were named in the original 26-man squad, but injury has ended their hopes of featuring in North America.
The timing could hardly be worse. Morocco open their Group C campaign against Brazil in New York, a fixture already carrying huge significance for a nation eager to build on its remarkable recent rise.
Aguerd’s absence will be particularly painful. The experienced centre-back has not played since March due to a serious groin problem. Surgery offered hope, but further examinations revealed a fracture of the pubic bone, forcing Morocco to abandon plans for his return.
The defender knows this feeling all too well. During Morocco’s historic run to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals, Aguerd was also sidelined by injury after the last-16 victory over Spain. He missed the final three matches as the Atlas Lions became the first African nation to reach the last four.
Ezzalzouli’s exit is even more heartbreaking. The 24-year-old winger appeared set to play a major role after an impressive season and strong performances for the national team.
Instead, his World Cup dream ended in a freak collision during Sunday’s friendly against Norway. As Morocco defended a corner, teammate Chadi Riad landed awkwardly on Ezzalzouli’s knee. The winger tried to continue but was eventually forced off the pitch.
With time running out before FIFA’s registration deadline, Morocco turned to familiar faces. Veteran defender Marwane Saadane replaces Aguerd, while Angers winger Amine Sbai earns an unexpected opportunity after making his international debut only recently.
Both replacements have already been training with the squad. Saadane even featured in the second half of the 1-1 draw against Norway, giving Ouahbi a chance to assess his readiness under match conditions.
The injuries also place greater responsibility on Morocco’s remaining leaders. Players such as Achraf Hakimi, Youssef En-Nesyri and Noussair Mazraoui will be expected to guide a squad carrying the hopes of an entire continent.
Yet Morocco have shown before that adversity can fuel belief. Their run to the World Cup semi-finals and AFCON final was built on resilience, organisation and unity.
