Saibari uncertain, Riad likely out: Morocco faces France in World Cup quarter-final depleted

Morocco could face its 2026 World Cup quarter-final against France on Thursday evening without two of its regulars. Ismael Saibari, who suffered a thigh injury in the 21st minute of the victory against Canada (3-0) in the round of 16, must undergo another MRI in the coming hours to determine if he will be available.

The Bayern Munich striker is Morocco’s leading scorer in the tournament with three goals. According to L’Équipe, the signals sent by the injury “do not bode well for what’s ahead,” even though the medical staff is working to get him back on his feet. In the event of a withdrawal, Soufiane Rahimi, who already came on as his substitute against the Canadians, should inherit a place in Mohamed Ouahbi’s starting eleven.

The Moroccan coach’s problems do not end there. Chadi Riad, Crystal Palace centre-back already absent during the round of 16 and quarter-final, is also highly uncertain for this clash. Redouane Halhal, unconvincing against Canada, appears as the most likely option to replace him in central defence.

A more positive note, however, for Issa Diop: withdrawn in the 87th minute against the Canadians, the former French youth international suffered only cramps and should be able to hold his place against Kylian Mbappé and the Blues.