Abderrazak Hamdallah Withdraws from Morocco Camp, Iajour Called Up as Replacement
Morocco’s preparations for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations have been dealt another blow as striker Abderrazak Hamdallah has pulled out of the national team’s training camp in Portugal. His absence follows that of Marouane Chamakh, who was previously excused due to club commitments with Crystal Palace.
The Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) confirmed Hamdallah’s withdrawal but stated that the exact reasons for his absence remain unclear. The forward is not expected to rejoin the Atlas Lions until June, when the squad regroups for a training camp ahead of a scheduled friendly against Russia on June 6.
In response to the growing list of absentees, head coach Badou Zaki has called up Raja Casablanca striker Mouhcine Iajour to reinforce the squad. Iajour is set to arrive in Faro on May 26 to take part in the team’s series of friendly fixtures as part of their build-up to hosting the continental tournament in January 2015.
With preparations continuing despite these early setbacks, the Atlas Lions will use the Portugal camp and upcoming friendlies to evaluate form and finalize key selections for the tournament on home soil.
