World Cup 2026: Noussair Mazraoui to resume training as Abde Ezzalzouli faces 48-hour test

Morocco’s final stretch of World Cup preparation has been disrupted by fresh fitness concerns, even as early indications suggest a split outcome in the cases of two key players.

Right-back Noussair Mazraoui is expected to return to training in the coming days after a shoulder problem, while winger Abde Ezzalzouli has been placed under a 48-hour medical observation window ahead of the tournament opener against Brazil.

The Atlas Lions drew 1-1 with Norway at the Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, a match that mixed encouraging attacking signs with late frustration.

Brahim Díaz opened the scoring inside seven minutes with a powerful finish from close range after a sharp move inside the box. However, Norway responded through Martin Odegaard in the 75th minute, cancelling out Morocco’s early advantage.

The result, however, was overshadowed by the sight of both Mazraoui and Ezzalzouli being forced off during the contest, leaving head coach Mohamed Ouahbi with immediate concerns just days before the World Cup begins.

Mazraoui setback appears manageable

The initial concern centred on Mazraoui, who left the field in the 29th minute after appearing to clutch his upper arm following a heavy knock to the shoulder area.

The Manchester United defender, who is also understood to have undergone scans, is believed to have suffered a partial shoulder dislocation, although Morocco have not formally confirmed the diagnosis.

Despite the scare, optimism remains within the camp. A source close to the team told ESPN: “For Mazraoui, he received a hit on his shoulder and he will resume training in the coming days.”

The 28-year-old’s importance to Morocco’s defensive structure is significant, particularly given his experience at the highest level, including previous World Cup exposure. His ability to recover quickly will be a relief for a side already managing multiple fitness issues across the squad.

Mazraoui has previously played through injury during Morocco’s deep run to the World Cup semi-finals in Qatar, and his resilience is again expected to be tested, though early indications suggest he will remain part of the squad’s plans.

Ezzalzouli placed under observation

The situation is less certain for Ezzalzouli, who did not reappear after half-time following a first-half incident involving teammate Chadi Riad being pushed into him. The winger appeared to suffer discomfort in his right leg before being withdrawn and replaced by Soufiane Rahimi.

Medical staff have opted for a cautious approach, with the player set to be reassessed over the next 48 hours to determine whether he can feature in Morocco’s opening Group C fixture against Brazil in New York.

“The situation is the following,” the same source explained. “For Ezzalzouli, we will wait two days just to be sure, to study [the injury] and to make a deeper analysis.”

Ouahbi later confirmed the concern without offering further clarity, saying: “Two players went off injured, and we’re waiting to see what they have. I’m more concerned about that [than the performance]. I hope, God willing, that they’ll be alright.”

Selection pressure ahead of Brazil opener

Morocco’s injury list extends beyond the Norway match, with key defender Nayef Aguerd still sidelined after failing to play since early March due to a groin issue.

Anass Salah-Eddine, seen as a possible deputy at left-back, was also absent, while Chemsdine Talbi of Sunderland continues recovery from a muscle problem.

With the Brazil clash only days away, Morocco face mounting pressure to finalise a fully fit starting XI. Ouahbi must also consider contingency options within the wider camp, including Ali Maamar, Amine Sbaï and Marwane Saadane, who are present but not registered in the final tournament squad unless emergency changes are required.

Despite the setbacks, Ouahbi maintained a measured tone, insisting the performance against Norway still offered encouraging elements. “We really showed some very good things against a very good opponent,” he said. “It was important that we managed everyone’s playing time.”