AFCON 2025
Morocco have been dealt a potential injury setback ahead of their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Brazil, with key players Abdessamad Ezzalzouli and Noussair Mazraoui both facing fitness concerns.
The duo picked up injuries during Morocco’s final warm-up game, a 1-1 draw against Norway on Sunday, just days before the World Cup kicks off across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Ezzalzouli was withdrawn at half-time after sustaining a leg injury, while Mazraoui’s outing lasted only 29 minutes before he was forced off with a shoulder problem.
Despite the injury concerns, Morocco produced an encouraging display against Norway. The Atlas Lions took an early lead before their opponents fought back to score the equaliser with 15 minutes remaining.
Speaking after the match, head coach Mohamed Ouahbi expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance but admitted he was worried about the fitness of the injured players.
“We left a good impression despite not winning because we really showed some very good things against a very good opponent,” Ouahbi said.
“That’s the point of playing against teams like this. When you make so many changes, it is difficult for the players, but it was important that we managed everyone’s playing time.”
The coach added: “Two players went off injured. We’re waiting to see how serious it is. I’m more concerned about that.”
Morocco head into the tournament carrying high expectations after becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The North Africans will begin their Group D campaign against Brazil on Sunday at MetLife Stadium, with the fitness of Ezzalzouli and Mazraoui set to be closely monitored in the coming days.
