Morocco Boss Ouahbi Concerned By Mazraoui And Ezzalzouli Injuries Ahead Of World Cup

Morocco’s final warm-up for the World Cup ended with fresh concerns, as injuries to Noussair Mazraoui and Abde Ezzalzouli overshadowed a 1-1 draw with Norway at Sports Illustrated Stadium, only days before the Atlas Lions open their Group C campaign.

Morocco start the World Cup on 13 June against five-time winners Brazil in Group C, then face Scotland before meeting Haiti. The Atlas Lions reached the semi-finals in Qatar in 2022, losing 2-0 to France, and are now in the tournament for a third straight edition.

Morocco’s schedule and recent tournament history highlight the importance of this preparation phase, especially with key players now doubtful.

Against Norway, Brahim Diaz struck early, scoring in the eighth minute after neat work from Ezzalzouli down the left, placing a low shot into the bottom-left corner. Norway replied in the 75th minute when Martin Odegaard found the net to secure a 1-1 draw.

The match turned worrying for Morocco when Mazraoui left the pitch just before the half-hour, replaced by Youssef Belammari after suffering a shoulder injury. Ezzalzouli, who had five shots, four touches in Norway’s box and created two chances, then picked up a leg problem and was replaced by Soufiane Rahimi at half-time.

Morocco World Cup hopes and Ouahbi’s reaction

Head coach Mohamed Ouahbi made several changes during the friendly, aiming to share minutes and protect players before Brazil. Despite the result, Ouahbi highlighted many positives in the display but stressed that the fitness of Mazraoui and Ezzalzouli is now the main issue for the technical staff.

“We left a good impression despite not winning because we really showed some very good things against a very good opponent,” Ouahbi told reporters. “That’s the point of playing against teams like this. When you make so many changes, it’s difficult for the players, but it was important that we managed everyone’s playing time. Two players went off injured. We’re waiting to see how serious it is. I’m more concerned about that.”

With Brazil, Scotland and Haiti awaiting in Group C, Mazraoui and Ezzalzouli’s test results will shape Morocco’s plans. The draw with Norway confirmed Morocco’s competitive level, yet the late injuries mean Ouahbi and the staff must now assess options carefully before the World Cup kick-off on 13 June.