World Cup 2026: Morocco hand injury boost as Abde Ezzalzouli avoids tournament-ending setback

Morocco have received a major injury boost ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after winger Abde Ezzalzouli was cleared to remain with the Atlas Lions squad despite suffering a knee injury during a recent friendly against Norway.

The talented forward picked up the injury in Morocco’s 1-1 draw with Norway on Sunday, a match played as part of the North African side’s preparations for the World Cup. The encounter also saw fellow Morocco star Noussair Mazraoui forced off due to injury concerns.

Initial reports had raised fears that Ezzalzouli could miss the tournament, dealing a significant blow to Morocco’s hopes ahead of their Group C campaign. The Atlas Lions have been drawn alongside Brazil, Scotland and Haiti in what promises to be a highly competitive group.

However, fresh medical assessments have delivered encouraging news for the Moroccan camp, with the winger said to have only suffered a moderate knee ligament sprain rather than a more serious injury that could have ruled him out of the competition.

The diagnosis means the winger is expected to spend between two and four weeks on the sidelines. While the recovery timeline remains tight, Morocco’s coaching and medical staff have reportedly decided against removing him from the World Cup squad.

The decision reflects the importance of Ezzalzouli to Morocco’s plans. The dynamic attacker has become one of the team’s most dangerous offensive weapons thanks to his pace, dribbling ability and creativity in the final third. His presence provides an added dimension to Morocco’s attack as they prepare to challenge some of the world’s strongest teams on football’s biggest stage.

Keeping the winger in the squad also gives the coaching staff hope that he could recover in time to play a role during the tournament, even if he is not immediately available at the start of the competition.

Morocco will continue to closely monitor the player’s rehabilitation over the coming days, while supporters await further updates on the condition of both Ezzalzouli and Mazraoui.

For now, the news comes as a welcome relief for the Atlas Lions, who remain determined to build on their recent international successes and make another deep run at the World Cup despite the injury concerns heading into the tournament.