Hakim Ziyech injury blow in Wydad Casablanca defeat

Hakim Ziyech’s hopes of returning to the Moroccan national team suffered another setback after the midfielder was forced off injured during Wydad Casablanca’s 1-0 defeat to FUS Rabat.

The Moroccan international, who had been working to regain form ahead of the 2026 World Cup, endured a difficult evening in a rescheduled league fixture.

Making his first appearance under new coach Patrice Carteron, Ziyech struggled to impose himself before leaving the pitch just before half-time following a knock to the back of his left ankle.

Wydad Casablanca, playing their first match since their CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final elimination on 22 March — a result that led to the departure of coach Mohamed Amine Benhachem — were unable to avoid defeat.

The loss complicates their position in the title race, although the team, currently third in the Botola standings, remains within reach of the leaders.

For Ziyech, the night proved particularly frustrating. Despite a promising start to his time at the club, where he recorded three goals and one assist in eight appearances, he was unable to influence proceedings and was involved in two dangerous turnovers during the match.

His early exit added to the disappointment, as he left the field visibly frustrated.

The injury raises further uncertainty around his immediate future. Earlier in March, Ziyech had already missed two matches due to a previous setback, casting doubt over his chances of being included in the first squad selected by Morocco’s new head coach, Mohamed Ouhabi.

With the final preparations for the 2026 World Cup squad approaching, every appearance is crucial. Ziyech now faces a race against time to recover and regain form, knowing that further absences could weaken his case for selection.

For the former Ajax player, the coming weeks will be decisive as he looks to overcome yet another obstacle in his bid to return to international duty.