Morocco have suffered a major setback on the eve of the FIFA World Cup after confirming the withdrawals of Abdessamad “Abde” Ezzalzouli and Nayef Aguerd from the tournament. The absence of the two key players is a big loss to the Atlas Lions’ as they prepare for football’s biggest stage.

Abde, one of Morocco’s potent attacking threat, will miss the competition after suffering a knee ligament injury during the team’s final preparations. The Real Betis winger had been expected to play an important role in Mohamed Ouahbi’s plans, offering pace, creativity and directness on the left side of attack.

Aguerd’s absence is an equally damaging loss. The Marseille defender has been a pillar of Morocco’s back line in recent years and played a crucial role during the country’s historic run to the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finals. His leadership, aerial ability and experience at the highest level made him one of the most trusted figures in the squad.

The Moroccan Football Federation has moved quickly to complete the replacements, with Amine Sbaï and Marwane Saadane added to the official World Cup squad. The two players have been registered with FIFA and are now part of Morocco’s final tournament roster.

Sbaï, an attacking player capable of operating across the frontline, provides Morocco with an additional option in wide areas following Abde’s injury. Saadane, meanwhile, brings defensive experience and will help reinforce a squad that has lost one of its most established centre-backs.

The timing of the injuries could hardly be more challenging for Morocco, who had hoped to build on their remarkable achievements in recent years. After becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final in 2022, the Atlas Lions entered the 2026 tournament with ambitions of once again competing against the world’s best.

Now, Ouahbi must adapt without two players who were expected to contribute heavily. While Morocco still possess considerable depth and a talented squad, losing Abde’s attacking spark and Aguerd’s defensive authority just days before the tournament begins will test the team’s resilience.

For a side aiming to make another deep run on the global stage, the challenge has become even greater. Morocco will now rely on their squad strength, tactical organisation and emerging talents to overcome the absence of two important figures. They kick-start their campaign on Saturday June 13, before games against Scotland and Haity on the 19th and 24th respectively.