NEC face Sami Ouaissa absence after Champions League qualifying breakthrough

NEC are celebrating their progress to the Champions League qualifying play-off round, but the Dutch club could be without Morocco international Sami Ouaissa for the next stage of their campaign.

Ouaissa was forced off after 27 minutes of the second leg against Olympiakos last Tuesday, with Emre Mor coming on as his replacement. The precise nature of the injury has not yet been established, but NEC head coach Dick Schreuder said on Friday that the midfielder would be unavailable for the time being.

The setback adds to Schreuder’s concerns after defender Philippe Sandler also sustained an injury during the match. Sandler left the field around 10 minutes after Ouaissa and is expected to be sidelined for a long period.

NEC’s qualification for the Champions League play-off round remains a significant achievement, but the timing of the injury problems leaves Schreuder with important decisions to make. Ouaissa’s absence removes one of his attacking options, while Sandler’s longer-term problem affects the team’s defensive choices.

The club have moved to strengthen their options at the back by signing Gabriel Bras on loan from FC Porto and Almugera Kabar from Borussia Dortmund. Those arrivals give Schreuder two additional defensive players as NEC prepare for the next stage of their European campaign.

However, the immediate uncertainty surrounds Ouaissa, whose injury was serious enough to end his involvement against Olympiakos before half-time. NEC have not yet confirmed how long the Morocco international will be unavailable, and Schreuder’s comments suggest the club are still assessing the situation.

Sandler’s injury is clearer in one respect, with the defender expected to miss a lengthy period. His absence, combined with Ouaissa’s uncertain availability, means NEC will have to manage a difficult spell after reaching the Champions League qualifying play-offs.

The club’s recruitment of Bras and Kabar provides defensive cover, but Schreuder will still be waiting for further clarity on Ouaissa before knowing the full extent of the impact on his squad.