Moroccan striker Hamza Igamane faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after sustaining a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in his right knee during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal in Rabat.
The 23-year-old’s injury was confirmed through medical tests following Morocco’s dramatic 1–0 victory at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Sunday.
Igamane, who had been limited to a substitute role throughout the tournament due to a prior injury sustained while playing for his club, LOSC Lille, was introduced late in extra time.
His appearance was brief. After just a few minutes on the pitch, he went down following a challenge involving Senegal’s goalkeeper, immediately raising alarm among the Moroccan coaching staff.
Lille later released an official statement confirming that Igamane had suffered a rupture of the ACL in his right knee — an injury that typically requires several months of rehabilitation. The Ligue 1 side added that it would offer full support to the player as he works towards a return to full fitness.
The timing of the setback is particularly harsh, arriving just five months ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Morocco will face Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti in the group stage, and Lille’s announcement suggested that Igamane’s participation in the tournament is now highly uncertain.
Head coach Walid Regragui had already voiced concerns immediately after the final, warning that the injury looked serious and could sideline the striker for an extended period.
Morocco will now have to reassess their attacking options, likely turning to established forwards such as Youssef En-Nesyri, Ayoub El Kaabi, and Soufiane Rahimi for upcoming fixtures.
