World Cup 2026: Morocco await Ismael Saibari injury verdict before France quarter-final

Morocco are facing an anxious wait over the fitness of Ismael Saibari after the forward suffered a thigh injury during the Atlas Lions’ 3-0 victory over Canada, casting doubt over his availability for the World Cup quarter-final against France.

The 25-year-old left the field after just 22 minutes at NRG Stadium in Houston, where Morocco secured victory to book a meeting with Les Bleus in the last eight of the tournament.

His early departure has raised concerns ahead of one of Morocco’s biggest matches, with medical tests expected to determine whether he will be fit to play.

Morocco set up France reunion

Morocco advanced to the quarter-finals with an impressive 3-0 win over co-hosts Canada, continuing another memorable World Cup campaign under Walid Regragui.

Victory has earned the Atlas Lions another meeting with France, the side that ended Morocco’s historic run at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar with a 2-0 semi-final victory.

The upcoming encounter in Boston offers Morocco the opportunity to reach a second successive World Cup semi-final.

It also presents a chance to face the same opponents who denied them a place in the final three and a half years ago.

Saibari forced off injured

The celebrations following Morocco’s qualification were tempered by concern over Saibari’s condition.

The forward was unable to continue after appearing to suffer a thigh problem during the opening stages of the match.

According to Sources, Saibari felt a slight popping sensation before leaving the pitch.

Assistant coach Mohamed Ouahbi later confirmed the injury during his post-match press conference.

“Saibari has a slight thigh injury, but we don’t know anything about it (yet).”

The initial assessment provided little clarity, leaving Morocco waiting for further medical examinations.

MRI scan to determine availability

Saibari is expected to undergo an MRI scan on Sunday to establish the severity of the injury.

The results will determine whether the Bayern Munich forward can recover in time for Thursday’s quarter-final against France.

His possible absence would represent a setback for Morocco after his productive start to the campaign.

The attacker has scored three goals in five appearances since the beginning of the season, making him an important part of the Atlas Lions’ attacking options.

Rahimi could step in

Should Saibari be ruled out, Soufiane Rahimi is expected to replace him in Morocco’s starting line-up.

Rahimi strengthened his case with a goal deep into stoppage time against Canada, sealing the 3-0 victory with the final strike of the match in the 90+8th minute.

Morocco now turn their attention to France while awaiting the outcome of Saibari’s medical assessment.

The quarter-final promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the tournament, but the Atlas Lions will first hope their injured forward receives positive news before preparations continue.