Morocco will contest their 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final against France without midfielder Ismael Saibari after the player failed to recover from a thigh injury sustained during the 3-0 victory over Canada in the Round of 16. The Atlas Lions secured their place in the last eight with a convincing win in Boston, but the victory came at a cost as Saibari picked up the knock that has now ruled him out of the clash with Les Bleus.
In Saibari’s absence, Soufiane Rahimi is expected to start in the attacking line. The forward is poised to lead the charge as Morocco attempt to reach the semi-finals of the global tournament for the first time in their history.
Defensive uncertainty
While the attacking adjustment appears straightforward, there remains uncertainty at the back. Crystal Palace defender Chadi Riad faces a late fitness test to determine his availability. Should the centre-back fail to prove his fitness, Redouane Halhal is in line to start alongside Issa Diop in the heart of the defence.
This potential change would see Halhal partner Diop, with the full-back positions likely to be occupied by Achraf Hakimi and Noussair Mazraoui. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou is expected to retain his place between the posts after keeping a clean sheet against Canada.
Midfield balance
The engine room is expected to feature two players with French connections. Ayyoub Bouaddi, who captained France’s Under-21 side as recently as March, is set to start for Morocco alongside Neil El Aynaoui, who was formerly on the books of RC Lens.
Supporting the attack, Brahim Diaz, Azzedine Ounahi and Bilal El-Khanouss are anticipated to provide the creative thrust behind Rahimi, offering the technical quality required to unlock a stubborn French defence.
Predicted lineup
Based on the latest team news, Morocco could line up as follows: Yassine Bounou; Noussair Mazraoui, Redouane Halhal, Issa Diop, Achraf Hakimi; Neil El Aynaoui, Ayyoub Bouaddi; Bilal El-Khanouss, Azzedine Ounahi, Brahim Diaz; Soufiane Rahimi.
Morocco’s meeting with France represents a significant step in their World Cup campaign, with the winner advancing to the semi-finals of the 2026 tournament. The Atlas Lions will be seeking to build upon their Round of 16 success and continue their impressive run on the global stage.