World Cup 2026: Morocco welcome back Hakimi but lose Aguerd ahead of Scotland clash

Morocco will have captain Achraf Hakimi available for their crucial World Cup 2026 meeting with Scotland, but the Atlas Lions will be without defender Nayef Aguerd and winger Abde Ezzalzouli.

The match comes at an important stage of the group campaign, with Morocco looking to build on their opening 1-1 draw against Brazil and strengthen their chances of progressing from the group.

Morocco made a positive impression in their first match after taking an early lead against Brazil before eventually being held to a draw. Reports from Ruedesjoueurs highlighted the team’s performance despite the disappointment of conceding an equaliser.

However, head coach Mohamed Ouahbi will have to deal with several changes to his squad before facing Scotland.

Real Betis winger Ezzalzouli has withdrawn from the squad because of a knee issue, while central defender Aguerd, who had initially been considered doubtful, has also been ruled out.

To replace the absent players, Morocco have called up Marwane Saadane of Al-Fateh and Amine Sbai of Angers.

The coaching staff has already made several important decisions regarding the squad. Former captain Romain Saïss, who currently plays for Al-Sadd, retired from international football after the Africa Cup of Nations.

Ouahbi also decided not to include several experienced players, including El Yamiq, Masina, Targhalline, Louza, Boufal, Ben Seghir, Adli, En-Nesyri and Igamane.

Despite those absences, Morocco will be boosted by the availability of Hakimi. The Paris Saint-Germain defender and new national team captain is expected to lead the side against Scotland.

Midfielder Sofyan Amrabat of Real Betis is also available, while Lille youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi is another option after impressing against Brazil.

Other players expected to play a role include Azzedine Ounahi, Samir El Mourabet, Gessime Yassine and Saibari.

Scotland enter the match in a strong position after starting their World Cup campaign with a 1-0 victory over Haiti. The result placed Steve Clarke’s side at the top of the group heading into the second round of fixtures.

The Scottish team will be without Billy Gilmour, who suffered an injury during preparations for the tournament. Tyler Fletcher has been brought into the squad as his replacement.

Despite that setback, Clarke still has several key players available, including Scott McTominay, Ryan Christie, Lewis Ferguson, John McGinn, Ché Adams, Lyndon Dykes, Andy Robertson and Shankland.

With both teams aiming for an important result, Morocco’s clash with Scotland is set to be a decisive match in their World Cup campaign.