As the Atlas Lions of Morocco prepare for their first gathering since the disappointment at AFCON 2023 in March 2024, there are looming concerns about the availability of star players Hakim Ziyech and Sofiane Boufal. The duo, integral to Morocco’s commendable performance at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, faced physical challenges during the recent African Cup of Nations.
Despite their crucial roles in the World Cup campaign, Ziyech and Boufal struggled to maintain peak physical condition at AFCON 2023. Boufal, initially uncertain due to injury, managed to recover in time but delivered subpar performances.
Starting as a substitute, he later regained his starting position but succumbed to injury once again, ultimately being sidelined before Morocco’s elimination.
Ziyech, who started every match as a key winger, scored a decisive goal against Zambia but suffered an ankle injury, forcing him to watch the team’s elimination from the stands against South Africa.
Both players returned to their respective clubs but have not yet resumed playing. Ziyech is undergoing individual training at Galatasaray and is expected to return next month. Boufal, undergoing rehabilitation at Al-Rayyan, faces a similar timeline.
With the Atlas Lions set to convene for FIFA days from March 13 to 18, the participation of Ziyech and Boufal remains uncertain.
The absence of these key players poses a strategic challenge for coach Walid Regragui, who may consider Abde Ezzalzouli on the left flank, as observed during AFCON 2023.
Despite shortcomings, the Real Betis youngster could serve as an interim replacement for Boufal.
Additionally, the promising Amine Adli emerges as a potential candidate to fill Ziyech’s role on the right wing, offering a chance for gradual integration into the national team setup.
The upcoming FIFA days will unveil the tactical decisions made by Regragui to address the absence of these influential figures.
