Morocco has suffered a significant setback ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final against France, with in-form forward Ismael Saibari ruled out through injury. The Atlas Lions will be without one of their standout performers of the tournament after the attacker failed to recover from a hamstring issue sustained during Morocco's Round of 16 victory over Canada.
Morocco to face France without injured Ismael Saibari
Saibari picked up a hamstring injury early in Morocco's knockout clash against Canada, casting doubt over his availability for the last-eight encounter. Speaking ahead of Thursday's quarter-final, head coach Mohamed Ouahbi confirmed the forward would not be fit to face France but remained hopeful of seeing him return later in the tournament.
"He's not ready but I hope it's not the end of the tournament for him."
The absence is a major blow for Morocco, with Saibari enjoying an outstanding World Cup campaign. The attacker found the net in all three group-stage matches and also converted the decisive penalty in the shootout victory over the Netherlands in the Round of 32.
Despite losing one of his key attacking players, Ouahbi insisted Morocco would not alter their tactical approach against the 2022 World Cup finalists.
"With regards to preparing for the match, there will not be any surprises. We have a clear idea of how we want to play."
The coach added that his side would look to remain patient in possession while searching for opportunities to break through France's defense.
Mohamed Ouahbi confident Morocco can challenge France
Morocco will meet France in a rematch of the 2022 World Cup semi-final, but Ouahbi believes the previous meeting will have little bearing on Thursday's contest.
The coach stressed that both nations have evolved significantly over the past four years and insisted his players are not satisfied with simply reaching the quarter-finals.
"Every match is different, has its own context, its own history."
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Ouahbi also dismissed suggestions that Morocco have already exceeded expectations, making it clear that his team's ambitions extend beyond a place in the last eight.
Morocco will now hope to overcome Saibari's absence as they chase a historic place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals.