The Moroccan team had a training session with problems this Wednesday (10), in Basking Ridge, New Jersey. Left winger Abde Ezzalzouli, defender Noussair Mazraoui and left-back Anass Salah Eddine did not participate in the activity, three days before the opening clash against Brazil in the 2026 World Cup.
Abde felt discomfort in his right knee during the 1-1 draw with Norway, on Sunday (7). He left the field in the first half with medical support. The Betis player underwent tests to determine the severity of the injury.
Manchester United’s Mazraoui suffered a shoulder injury in the same friendly. His absence, combined with that of Salah Eddine — who is also dealing with an injury — leaves the left back in a delicate situation. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi, for now, only has Youssef Belammari, from Al-Ahly, as an alternative for the position.
Aguerd’s return is relief in defense
In contrast, Olympique Marseille defender Nayef Aguerd trained normally. He has been out since March, when he underwent surgery to treat pubalgia. His return reinforces the defensive sector of the Atlas Lions.
According to the Moroccan press, the coach decided to keep Abde Ezzalzouli in the group. The expectation is that he will recover in time for the last game of the group stage, against Haiti, on June 25, or eventually for the knockout stage.
Impact on debut against Brazil
Morocco faces Brazil on Saturday (13), at 7pm, in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Afterwards, the team faces Scotland and Haiti in Group C. The injuries come at a sensitive time: the African team seeks to repeat or surpass the historic performance of 2022, when they reached the semifinals.
The absence of key players on the side and in attack could force tactical adjustments. Mazraoui and Abde are important players in both defense and offensive transition, areas that Brazil tends to exploit with speed. Coach Ouahbi will need to decide in the coming days whether to risk the athletes or opt for less experienced alternatives.
The Moroccan case adds to other concerns about injuries to favorite teams in the World Cup. For the African team, which has ambitions to advance in the group, managing these injuries will be decisive in the first rounds.
