Morocco loses Saibari for France quarter-final World Cup

It’s a tough blow for Morocco before facing France. Ismael Saibari, starter in attack since the start of the 2026 World Cup, is ruled out for the quarter-final scheduled for Thursday at 10 p.m.

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Injured during the round of 16 won against Canada, the Bayern Munich player is suffering from a thigh injury. Mohamed Ouahbi confirmed his absence at a press conference, while clarifying that he was not ruled out for the rest of the competition.

"The France match comes too soon," explained the Moroccan coach. Saibari had scored three goals in this World Cup, against Brazil, Scotland and Haiti.

Rahimi as first option

To replace him, Soufiane Rahimi is the leading candidate. Already brought in his place against Canada, the Al Ain striker presents a different profile, less technical, but fast, active in pressing and very dangerous in front of goal.

Rahimi has already scored twice in this World Cup. His efficiency is nothing new: with Al Ain, the former Raja player has 80 goals and 48 assists in 172 matches.

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Morocco therefore loses its best tournament scorer, but not its ability to hurt the French defense. Saibari’s absence forces Ouahbi to adjust his plan, without taking away the Atlas Lions’ offensive arguments.