BOSTON: Morocco will be without star midfielder Ismael Saibari for Thursday’s FIFA World Cup quarterfinal against France after he failed to recover from a hamstring injury.
Head coach Mohamed Ouahbi confirmed on Wednesday that the 24-year-old was the only player unavailable for the crucial last-eight clash.
“Everyone is 100 percent fit except Saibari. This game comes too soon for him, but I hope he is not out for the rest of the competition,” Ouahbi said.
How Did Saibari Sustain the Injury?
Saibari suffered the injury during Morocco’s 3-0 victory over Canada in the Round of 16 after being forced off early with a hamstring problem.
The midfielder has been one of Morocco’s standout performers at the tournament, scoring in all three group-stage matches and converting the decisive penalty in the shootout victory over the Netherlands in the Round of 32.
Who Could Replace Saibari?
Forward Soufiane Rahimi, who replaced Saibari against Canada and scored Morocco’s third goal, is expected to fill the attacking role against France.
Ouahbi expressed hope that Saibari could recover in time for the semifinals should Morocco progress.
What Is Morocco Hoping to Achieve?
Morocco will be aiming to avenge its 2-0 defeat to France in the semifinals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup and secure another place in the tournament’s final four.
Ouahbi dismissed suggestions that reaching the quarterfinals alone should be considered a success.
“We absolutely want to win the game tomorrow. We will not listen to people who say it doesn’t matter if we go out now,” he said.
What Did Brahim Diaz Say Ahead of the Match?
Morocco midfielder Brahim Diaz expressed confidence that his team can challenge one of the tournament favourites.
The Real Madrid star said Morocco has already shown it can compete with the world’s best teams and backed his side ahead of facing France, where he is expected to come up against club teammate Kylian Mbappe.
“Tomorrow, we are playing one of the favourites, but we have shown we can compete, and that is why we are here. I have full faith and full confidence in the team,” Diaz said.