Morocco’s Hakim Ziyech faces uncertain fate ahead of crucial clash with South Africa in AFCON 2023

As Morocco gears up to face South Africa in the round of 16 of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), a significant cloud of uncertainty hangs over the participation of star winger Hakim Ziyech. The Galatasaray player, who did not partake in the usual training session with the Atlas Lions on Friday at the Auguste-Denise West Stadium in San Pedro, faces doubt following his substitution in the clash against Zambia.

Ziyech’s absence from training fuels speculation about the nature and extent of his injury sustained after scoring a crucial goal in the match against Zambia on Wednesday, which Morocco won 1-0.

While the official details regarding his injury remain undisclosed, reports from Le Site Info suggest that the player may be dealing with a serious ankle sprain, warranting a period of rest for recovery.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Ziyech’s availability for the upcoming clash against South Africa, the medical staff is reportedly working diligently to design a tailored program aimed at expediting his rehabilitation and ensuring his swift return to the competition.

Coach Walid Regragui, who had been suspended for two matches following a confrontation with DRC player Chancel Mbemba, is set to make a return to the sidelines after the appeal committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) cleared him of the suspension on Friday.

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation highlighted on its website that this decision also nullifies the fine imposed on Regragui by the CAF disciplinary jury.

While Ziyech’s presence against South Africa remains uncertain, the Moroccan team, led by Coach Regragui, is steadfast in its preparation for the crucial encounter scheduled for next Tuesday at 8 p.m. GMT in San Pedro’s stadium, which boasts a capacity of 20,000 seats.

The unfolding narrative surrounding Ziyech’s injury adds a layer of suspense to this highly anticipated clash in the AFCON 2023 tournament.