Morocco welcome injured Ounahi and Rahimi to camp ahead of Niger clash

Morocco internationals Azzedine Ounahi and Soufiane Rahimi have joined the Atlas Lions’ camp at the Mohammed VI Football Complex to continue their recovery from injuries under the supervision of the national team’s medical staff.

The two players are receiving further treatment while remaining in contact with the national team’s staff and other members of the squad ahead of Morocco’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying double-header against Niger.

According to Moroccan outlet Alomk Sport, a source from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) said the federation is providing injured internationals with the necessary medical resources, even when they are already following rehabilitation programmes arranged by their clubs.

The arrangement allows the federation to monitor the players’ recovery and provide additional medical support during their absence from competitive football.

Rahimi and Ounahi face lengthy spells on the sidelines

Rahimi, who plays for UAE side Al Ain, sustained a right hamstring injury during his team’s match against Shabab Al Ahli in October. The injury is expected to keep him out of action for several weeks.

Ounahi faces a longer spell on the sidelines after suffering a serious injury to his right hamstring during a match with Greek side Panathinaikos. His recovery is expected to take between two and a half and three months.

The injuries are a setback for Morocco, with both players offering important attacking options to the national team.

Rahimi has established himself as a valuable attacking option for the Atlas Lions, particularly following his outstanding performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His movement, finishing ability and experience in front of goal have made him an important option for the coaching staff.

Ounahi, nicknamed “the Bee” for his lightness and agility on the pitch, brings creativity and technical quality to midfield. His ability to carry the ball, connect different areas of the pitch and contribute to attacking transitions makes his absence another challenge for Morocco.

El Aynaoui also ruled out of Niger fixtures

The injuries come at a busy stage of Morocco’s international calendar as the team continues its preparations for the 2027 AFCON.

Ounahi and Rahimi are expected to miss the upcoming double-header against Niger in the qualifiers.

Neil El Aynaoui will also be unavailable due to ankle discomfort, with Strasbourg’s Samir El Mourabit replacing him in the squad.

Morocco prepare for double-header against Niger

Morocco are scheduled to face Niger on Friday and Tuesday as they continue their qualification campaign for the 2027 AFCON.

The two matches offer the Atlas Lions another opportunity to strengthen their position in the race to qualify for the tournament.

Although Ounahi and Rahimi’s presence at the Mohammed VI Football Complex does not indicate an immediate return to action, it allows them to continue their rehabilitation alongside the national team setup.

Both players will have to complete their recovery before returning to competitive football.