World Cup 2026: Morocco sweat over Ismael Saibari and Chadi Riad ahead of France clash

Morocco are facing fresh injury concerns ahead of Thursday’s highly anticipated 2026 World Cup quarter-final against France, with Ismael Saibari and Chadi Riad both doubtful for the meeting in Boston.

According to French newspaper L’Équipe, the two Morocco internationals are battling fitness issues following the Atlas Lions’ convincing 3-0 victory over Canada in the Round of 16, leaving the coaching staff with important decisions before one of the country’s biggest matches of the tournament.

Saibari’s potential absence would be a significant setback for Morocco after the midfielder established himself as one of the team’s most influential attacking players during the competition.

The Bayern Munich player suffered a thigh problem during the victory over Canada and was unable to continue, leaving the pitch after just 21 minutes.

His early departure immediately raised concerns about his availability for the quarter-final, and uncertainty remains over whether he will recover in time.

Morocco could also be without central defender Chadi Riad, another player who has become an important figure in the team’s impressive World Cup campaign.

Riad has formed a solid defensive partnership with French-Moroccan defender Issa Diop, providing balance and stability at the heart of the back line under head coach Mohammed Ouahbi.

Losing him would force Morocco into defensive adjustments against a French attack expected to pose one of their toughest tests of the tournament.

With both players still considered doubtful, the coaching staff are reportedly studying alternative options across the pitch.

One solution being considered would see captain Noussair Mazraoui move into central defence if Riad is unavailable. That adjustment would create space for Anass Salah-Eddine to occupy the left side of defence.

The AS Roma full-back, who spent last season on loan at PSV Eindhoven, offers attacking qualities through his pace and willingness to push forward, making him a possible replacement should tactical changes become necessary.

Further forward, Soufiane Rahimi has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Saibari if the attacking midfielder is unable to feature.

Rahimi’s ability to attack open spaces and make dangerous runs behind opposing defenders could provide Morocco with another attacking option against a French side renowned for its defensive organisation.

Despite the injury concerns, Morocco will take confidence from their commanding display against Canada, where they secured qualification for the last eight with a convincing 3-0 victory.

However, facing France represents an entirely different challenge, and the possible absence of two established starters could influence Mohammed Ouahbi’s plans.

Another question facing the Moroccan coach is whether he would consider handing Redouane Halhal a starting role against France after what the original report described as a difficult and inconsistent display against Canada.

With preparations entering their final stages, Morocco continue to monitor the condition of both Saibari and Riad as they hope to have as many key players available as possible before the decisive quarter-final showdown.