Morocco have been dealt a huge setback ahead of their highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter final meeting with France after influential forward Ismael Saibari was ruled out of the encounter due to a hamstring injury.
The Atlas Lions were hoping to have one of their most important attacking players available for the decisive clash against the tournament favourites, but Saibari’s recovery came too late, forcing head coach Mohamed Ouahbi to prepare without the talented forward.
The quarter final match is scheduled to take place at Boston Stadium, where Morocco will attempt to overcome France and reach another historic stage of the competition. However, they will have to do so without one of their biggest attacking threats.
Saibari picked up the injury during Morocco’s impressive 3-0 victory over Canada in the round of 16. The forward was forced to leave the pitch after only 22 minutes, immediately raising concerns within the Moroccan camp because of his importance to the team’s attacking structure.
Although medical examinations showed that the injury was not as serious as initially feared, the short recovery period before the France encounter made it impossible for the 25-year-old to regain full fitness in time.
Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi confirmed that Saibari would not feature against France, explaining that the team’s medical staff and technical department would only select players who are completely ready for such a demanding fixture.
“Everyone is available except Saibari. The match has come too early for him, although he is not out for the rest of the tournament, hopefully,” Ouahbi said.
The coach added that maintaining full fitness levels among the squad remains a priority as Morocco continue their pursuit of another memorable World Cup campaign.
Saibari’s absence represents a significant loss for Morocco because the forward has been one of the standout performers during the tournament. His creativity, movement, and ability to influence attacking situations have made him a key figure in the Atlas Lions’ progress.
The forward has scored three important goals during Morocco’s World Cup journey and played a crucial role in their dramatic victory over the Netherlands in the previous round. He converted the decisive penalty that helped eliminate the European side and further increased his reputation on the international stage.
Born in Spain to Moroccan parents, Saibari developed his football career in the Netherlands and emerged through the youth system of PSV Eindhoven before becoming one of Morocco’s most exciting attacking talents. His technical ability, physical strength, and versatility have allowed him to operate in different attacking positions, making him a valuable asset for both club and country.
His impressive performances have also attracted major attention in European football, with FC Bayern Munich securing his services in a high profile transfer move. The German giants see Saibari as a player with significant potential who can contribute at the highest level of European football.
Despite losing their star forward, Morocco remain confident that their squad depth can help them compete against France. Coach Ouahbi believes every player in the squad has a role to play and that substitutes can make decisive contributions during important matches.
“When you want to go very far in a competition, you need everybody. The players who are not starting know they have the opportunity to finish matches and make a difference,” Ouahbi explained.
Morocco are expected to rely on Soufiane Rahimi as one of the leading options to replace Saibari in attack. Rahimi has previously delivered important performances for the national team and will be expected to provide the energy and attacking threat needed against France.
The Atlas Lions have also received positive news ahead of the encounter, with defender Chadi Riad returning to contention after missing the previous match because of an injury concern.
The upcoming fixture carries additional emotional significance for Morocco, who are seeking revenge against France after their elimination in the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi final in Qatar. The North African nation became the first African team to reach the final four of a World Cup tournament and are determined to create another historic moment.
However, standing in their way is a powerful French side led by superstar Kylian Mbappe, who have won six consecutive matches in the tournament and remain one of the strongest contenders for the trophy.
Morocco will need a disciplined defensive performance, strong midfield organisation, and clinical finishing if they are to overcome the reigning European powerhouse.
While Saibari’s absence is a major disappointment, the Atlas Lions have already shown their ability to overcome challenges. Their team spirit, tactical discipline, and growing confidence could prove crucial as they aim to continue their remarkable World Cup adventure.
