Morocco have been dealt a significant setback ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after making two injury-enforced changes to their squad just days before their opening match.
Winger Abde Ezzalzouli and defender Nayef Aguerd have both been ruled out through injury, prompting head coach Mohamed Ouahbi to make last-minute alterations to the squad.
Ezzalzouli suffered a knee injury during a recent friendly against Norway and has been replaced by Amine Sbai. Meanwhile, Aguerd, who has been sidelined since March following groin surgery, will be replaced by Marwane Saadane.
The loss of both players is a major blow to Morocco’s World Cup ambitions, particularly given their historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 tournament. Team captain Achraf Hakimi expressed support for the injured duo, promising the squad would continue fighting in their honor.
Morocco begin their World Cup campaign against Brazil on Saturday in New Jersey before taking on Scotland and Haiti in Group C.
The Atlas Lions will now look to overcome these late setbacks as they aim to make another deep run on football’s biggest stage.