Ismael Saibari is a major doubt as Morocco prepare to take on France in the World Cup quarter-final on Thursday. The Bayern Munich forward was forced off in the first half of the last-16 win over Canada with a muscular injury, denying him the chance to add to his three goals at the tournament.
Saibari's fitness uncertain
"I haven't met with the doctor yet," Morocco head coach Mohamed Wahbi said. "Saibari has pain in his thigh." The 25-year-old was not pictured in training on Tuesday and is currently following a special recovery program under the supervision of the national team’s medical staff.
While reports claim that examinations have shown the thigh injury isn't serious, it remains uncertain whether Saibari will recover in time to feature against the tournament favourites.
Possible replacements
If Saibari is unable to start, Soufiane Rahimi is set to lead the line in Boston and maintain his ever-present record at this summer’s expanded tournament. Rahimi replaced Saibari against Canada and scored the third goal in the 3-0 win in second-half stoppage time.
Elsewhere, Morocco are hopeful of having Crystal Palace defender Chadi Riad available for selection after he missed the last-16 clash with a knock. In a boost ahead of the France game, Riad took part in Tuesday’s training session and could earn an immediate recall to partner Issa Diop, with Redouane Halhal making way.
Predicted lineup
Achraf Hakimi is expected to captain the side, Arsenal and Manchester United transfer target Ayyoub Bouaddi is set to start against the country of his birth, and Azzedine Ounahi will look to follow up his brace from the last round.
Predicted Morocco XI: Bounou; Hakimi, Riad, Diop, Mazraoui; Bouaddi, El Aynaoui; El Khannouss, Ounahi, Diaz; Rahimi.
Doubts: Saibari, Riad. Time and date: 9pm BST on Thursday, July 9, 2026. How to watch: ITV. Venue: Boston Stadium.
