World Cup 2026: Morocco step up preparations for Brazil opener as Ezzalzouli injury raises concern

Morocco have intensified their preparations for a high-profile opening clash against Brazil in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C campaign, with focus shifting sharply to fitness, tactics, and squad readiness as kickoff approaches.

The Atlas Lions are set to begin their tournament journey next Saturday against Brazil at the iconic MetLife Stadium, a fixture already generating significant global attention due to the pedigree of both teams and the stakes involved in the group.

Training on Tuesday was split into two sessions under the guidance of head coach Mohamed Wahbi, as the technical staff continued fine-tuning their final preparations. The day’s work combined both recovery and high-intensity tactical drills aimed at ensuring players reach peak condition ahead of their opening match.

The first session took place indoors at a sports hall, where the entire squad was present. Among those participating was Bayern Munich full-back Noussair Mazraoui, who trained normally as the coaching staff monitored overall fitness levels across the group.

However, concern emerged over the condition of Abdessamad Zalzouli, who was absent from training after picking up an injury during Morocco’s recent friendly against Norway. His availability for the opening World Cup fixtures is now in serious doubt, with medical staff closely assessing the severity of the setback.

Later in the day, the squad moved onto the training pitch for a second session focused on physical conditioning and tactical structure. The coaching team placed particular emphasis on pressing patterns, defensive organisation, and transitional play as Morocco prepare for the attacking threat posed by Brazil.

Mohamed Wahbi and his assistants also used the session to evaluate player sharpness and combinations across different areas of the pitch, with competition for starting places intensifying as the tournament draws near.

Morocco’s opening fixture against Brazil is expected to be one of the standout matches of the group stage, pitting African ambition against South American tradition in a contest that could set the tone for both sides’ campaigns.

After facing Brazil, Morocco will continue their Group C journey against Scotland before concluding their group-stage fixtures in what is expected to be a tightly contested section.

Despite the injury concern surrounding Zalzouli, optimism remains within the Moroccan camp, with the squad widely regarded as one of Africa’s strongest representatives at the tournament.

As the countdown continues, all focus is now on final adjustments, recovery management, and ensuring that key players are fully prepared for one of the biggest matches in Morocco’s recent World Cup history.