Morocco midfielder Ismael Saibari will miss his nation’s quarter-final clash against France on Thursday evening, head coach Mohamed Ouahbi confirmed in a press conference. The 21-year-old sustained a hamstring injury during the round of 16 victory over Canada, a 3-0 win for the Atlas Lions.
Ouahbi indicated that the injury occurred too soon for Saibari to recover in time for the match against Les Bleus, though he expressed hope that the player would be available for the remainder of the tournament. “Apart from Saibari, everyone is available,” Ouahbi stated, adding, “For Saibari, the match comes too early. But he is not out for the rest of the competition, I hope.”
Saibari has been a key player for Morocco during the competition, scoring three goals in five starts. His absence represents a significant setback for the North African side as they prepare to face the reigning World Cup champions. According to L’Équipe, Soufiane Rahimi is expected to replace Saibari in the starting lineup. The 30-year-old forward has impressed as a substitute throughout the tournament, contributing two goals and one assist in five appearances.
Crystal Palace defender Chadi Riad is also anticipated to return to the starting eleven, partnering Issa Diop in central defence. The predicted Morocco lineup is: Bounou – Hakimi, I. Diop, Riad, Mazraoui – Bouaddi, El Aynaoui – B. Díaz, Ounahi, El Khannouss – Rahimi. Saibari currently plays his club football for PAOK in Greece, having joined the club in 2023. He has quickly established himself as a regular in the side, contributing goals and assists from midfield.
The match against France presents a challenging opportunity for Morocco to replicate their semi-final run from the 2022 World Cup. A win would see them progress to the final four of the competition, while a defeat would end their campaign. The availability of key players like Rahimi will be crucial in their efforts to overcome the French.
