Foxborough: Morocco have been dealt a major setback ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final against France, with in-form forward Ismael Saibari ruled out due to injury, head coach Mohamed Ouahbi confirmed on Wednesday.
Saibari, one of Morocco’s standout performers in the tournament, sustained a hamstring injury during the Atlas Lions’ 3-0 victory over Canada in the Round of 16. The PSV Eindhoven forward has failed to recover in time for the crucial last-eight clash against the two-time world champions.
“He’s not ready, but I hope it’s not the end of the tournament for him,” Ouahbi said, indicating that the team remains hopeful of Saibari’s possible return should they progress further.
Saibari’s absence a significant blow for Morocco
Saibari has played a key role in Morocco’s impressive World Cup campaign. He scored in all three group-stage matches and also converted the decisive penalty in the shootout win over the Netherlands in the Round of 32.
His absence leaves a gap in Morocco’s attacking setup, especially given his consistency and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments. However, Ouahbi maintained that the team would not change its approach despite missing one of its most influential players.
“With regards to preparing for the match, there will not be any surprises. I have nothing to hide. We have a clear idea of how we want to play,” he said.
Morocco to stick to tactical identity
Ouahbi emphasised that Morocco will continue to rely on their structured and disciplined style of play, which has helped them reach the quarter-finals.
“The key will be to hurt them when we have possession. It’s not only on the wings. We have to be patient with the ball and find spaces either on the sides or through the centre,” he explained.
Morocco have built a reputation in the tournament for their defensive organisation combined with quick transitions in attack. The team remains unbeaten in their last 10 matches since the Africa Cup of Nations final earlier this year.
“We’ve proven that we can hurt any team, and that’s the goal,” Ouahbi added.
France present formidable challenge
Morocco’s quarter-final clash is a rematch of the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-final, where France secured a 2-0 victory to end the African side’s historic run.
However, Ouahbi believes both teams have evolved significantly since then.
“Every match is different. It has its own context and history. It’s not going to be the same as in 2022,” he said.
France arrive in strong form, having won all five of their matches so far in the tournament. Didier Deschamps’ side topped their group and progressed through the knockout rounds with victories over Sweden and Paraguay.
Kylian Mbappe has been the standout performer for France, scoring seven goals and leading a potent attack that also features Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola.
Morocco aim for historic semi-final berth
Despite being considered underdogs, Morocco are determined to continue their historic run and secure a place in the semi-finals for the first time since their breakthrough campaign in 2022.
Ouahbi dismissed suggestions that reaching the quarter-finals should be seen as an achievement in itself.
“We’re not going to listen to people who say it’s great what we’ve done so far. Being here is not a bonus. The bonus is to win the World Cup,” he said.
Morocco are yet to defeat France in six previous meetings, having recorded two draws and four defeats. The upcoming match presents another opportunity to rewrite history.
The winner of the clash will face either Spain or Belgium in the semi-finals, raising the stakes even further.
Conclusion
While the absence of Saibari is a setback, Morocco’s confidence and tactical discipline remain intact as they prepare to face one of the tournament favourites. With both teams in strong form, the quarter-final promises to be a tightly contested encounter with a place in the semi-finals on the line.