Morocco have confirmed that Ismael Saibari will miss their FIFA World Cup quarter-final against France due to an injury sustained in the previous round. The 25-year-old forward, who has been a key player for the Atlas Lions, failed to recover in time for the highly anticipated clash at Boston Stadium on Thursday.
Saibari Injury Details
Saibari picked up the knock during Morocco's impressive 3-0 victory over Canada in the Round of 16 on July 4. The new Bayern Munich attacker went down in the 21st minute clutching the back of his thigh before Morocco's medical team rushed onto the pitch to assess him. After receiving treatment, it became clear he could not continue, forcing coach Mohamed Ouahbi to replace him with Soufiane Rahimi.
Coach Ouahbi Confirms Absence
Speaking ahead of the blockbuster encounter with France, Ouahbi confirmed the forward would not be available for selection. "He's not ready today, too early… I hope he can be available for the next game," Ouahbi said, according to the BBC. The Morocco boss expressed optimism that Saibari could return later in the tournament if the Atlas Lions overcome France and book a place in the semi-finals.
Impact on Morocco's Attack
Saibari has been one of Morocco's standout performers at the tournament, scoring three goals, including two that opened the scoring in matches. His direct running and creativity have played an important role in the North Africans' impressive campaign. His absence leaves Morocco without one of their key attacking threats as they prepare for one of their biggest tests of the competition.
Morocco's Recent Form
Morocco arrive in the quarter-finals after a convincing victory over Canada, inspired by a brilliant brace from Azzedine Ounahi. The Atlas Lions have become one of the tournament's surprise packages and enter the contest unbeaten in their last 34 matches across all competitions. According to the BBC, their recent form has also been impressive, with three wins and three draws in their last six outings. During that stretch, Morocco have scored 11 goals while conceding only five.
France's Winning Streak
France head into the tie on a six-match winning streak, making them a formidable opponent. Despite Saibari's absence, Ouahbi will hope players such as Ounahi and Rahimi can shoulder the attacking responsibility against a strong French defence.
CAF Support for Morocco
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) sent a message of support for Morocco as they gear up to face France. With the Atlas Lions standing as the sole African representative in the tournament, their coach's unwavering ambition to secure the title adds a compelling layer to this historic clash.
