Morocco prepare for Lesotho challenge with Nayef Aguerd ruled out

Morocco will face Lesotho in the second round of the CAN 2027 qualifiers on Tuesday, 29 September 2026, with Nayef Aguerd absent from the squad for the Group A match. Kick-off is scheduled for 13:00 GMT.

Aguerd played in Morocco’s previous game against Gabon and provided an assist, but the Olympique de Marseille defender did not travel to South Africa. He has remained in Morocco to follow a specific rehabilitation programme.

Despite that setback, the Lions of the Atlas are expected to adopt an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation as they look to break down a defensively organised Lesotho side.

Lesotho expected line-up

The Lesotho staff are expected to retain the same starting XI used in the previous round of matches.

The Crocodiles are likely to line up in a 5-4-1 system, with the formation designed to absorb Morocco’s pressure and provide an outlet for counter-attacks.

Goalkeeper: Sekhoane Moerane

Defenders: Katleho Koaeana, R. Mokokoane, T. Makhele, Mohlomi Makhetha, Itumeleng Falene

Midfielders: T. Sefali, Lehlohonolo Fothoane, T. Toloane, Neo Mokhachane

Forward: S. Motebang

The structure is expected to give Lesotho an extra body in defence while leaving S. Motebang as the main attacking option.

Morocco expected line-up

Morocco are expected to make their tactical intentions clear with an offensive system aimed at forcing an opening against Lesotho’s deep defensive block.

Goalkeeper: Yassine Bounou

Defenders: Ali Maamar, Issa Diop, Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal, Noussair Mazraoui

Midfielders: Ayyoub Bouaddi, Neil El Aynaoui, Azzedine Ounahi

Forwards: Brahim Diaz, Soufiane Rahimi, Yassir Zabiri

The match will be Lesotho’s second fixture in the CAN 2027 qualifying campaign, with Morocco seeking to negotiate the away challenge without Aguerd.

The published pre-match odds from 1xbet place Morocco at 1,00 to win. A Lesotho victory is priced at 19,00, while the draw is listed at 11,00.