Moroccan goalkeeper Munir Mohamedi made his long-awaited return to competitive action on Sunday as he continues his push to secure a place in Morocco’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The experienced shot-stopper started for RS Berkane in their narrow 1-0 victory over CODM Meknes in the Botola Pro, marking his first appearance in four months.
Mohamedi had been sidelined since January after suffering a dislocated right shoulder during a training session with the Morocco national football team camp. The injury occurred just two days before Morocco’s Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal, a match that was later awarded to the Atlas Lions by forfeit.
Following the setback, the goalkeeper underwent surgery in Spain on January 24 and has spent recent months recovering and rebuilding his fitness.
Sunday’s encounter was also his first start for Berkane since December, when he featured in a CAF Champions League group-stage match against Rivers United.
His return arrives at a crucial stage as Morocco intensify preparations for the World Cup scheduled for next month. Mohamedi, who represented Morocco at both the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups, is hoping to earn another call-up under head coach Mohamed Ouahbi and potentially feature at his third global tournament.
However, competition for the goalkeeper position remains fierce. Ahmed Tagnaouti of AS FAR has enjoyed an outstanding campaign, helping his side reach the CAF Champions League final while maintaining impressive domestic form.
At the same time, El Mehdi Al Harrar has also emerged as one of the standout goalkeepers in the Botola Pro, producing several clean sheets for Raja Club Athletic during their title challenge.
Mohamedi will now look to regain full rhythm with RS Berkane in the closing weeks of the season as he aims to convince the Moroccan technical staff that he still deserves a place among the Atlas Lions on football’s biggest stage.
