Morocco have suffered a significant setback ahead of their World Cup opener against Brazil after making two late changes to their squad. Experienced centre-back Nayef Aguerd and left winger Abde Ezzalzouli have been replaced by Marwane Saadane and Amine Sbai before Saturday’s match.
The changes come after Ezzalzouli was forced off at half-time in Morocco’s 1-1 warm-up draw with Norway on Sunday following a collision with a teammate. The Real Betis forward has been in strong form this season, finishing with 15 goals and 13 assists for the Seville club, making his absence a major loss for Morocco’s attacking options.
Aguerd, who is 30 and formerly of West Ham, has also been unavailable after missing the past three months of action for Marseille because of a groin injury. His omission leaves Morocco without one of their most experienced defenders at a crucial stage of the tournament.
Sbai, aged 23, has been capped once by Morocco and currently plays for French club Angers. Saadane, 34, plays for Saudi Arabian side Al Fateh and brings added experience to the squad as Morocco reshuffle their options in response to the injuries.
There was further concern over defender Noussair Mazraoui, who was forced off with a shoulder knock against Norway. However, the Manchester United full-back is expected to recover in time to face Brazil in New Jersey.
Morocco will now go into their opener having been hit by injuries in both defence and attack, reducing their depth just days before taking on one of the tournament favourites. The last-minute changes increase the pressure on the squad as they prepare for a difficult start to their campaign.
