Ismael Saibari sidelined by suspension as Morocco cruise past Gabon

Ismael Saibari was unavailable as Morocco defeated Gabon 2-0 in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match on Friday.

The Bayern Munich midfielder missed the game because he was serving a suspension linked to an incident during January’s AFCON final against Senegal, according to FCB Inside.

During that match, several Moroccan ball boys attempted to take Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s towel as heavy rain fell. Saibari and Achraf Hakimi briefly became involved in the confrontation. Saibari later admitted his actions were “a mistake” and apologised.

The 25-year-old was initially given a two-match ban from CAF competitions. However, the punishment was subsequently reduced to one match, meaning he should be eligible for Morocco’s next international fixture.

The controversy surrounding the final has not yet been fully settled. Senegal won on the pitch, but Morocco appealed after their opponents temporarily left the field. Morocco’s appeal succeeded, prompting Senegal to challenge the decision. The Court of Arbitration for Sport is expected to deliver its ruling on October 8.

Saibari’s absence therefore came from disciplinary circumstances rather than injury, and Morocco managed to secure a comfortable qualifying victory without their Bayern star.