Story perspectives

Saibari Hamstring Rules Morocco Out of France Quarterfinal

7/10/2026

Summary

Saibari Misses Quarterfinal

Morocco announced forward Ismael Saibari will miss the quarter-final versus France because of a hamstring injury sustained against Canada.
Saibari scored in each of Morocco's first four matches – Brazil, Haiti, Scotland and the Netherlands.
Coach Mohamed Ouahbi said all other players are fit as Morocco, 2025 AFCON champions on a 34-match unbeaten run, prepare for the July 9, 2026 quarter-final at Boston Stadium, 19:00 GMT.

Summary

Ouahbi Demands Fearlessness

Coach Mohamed Ouahbi said Morocco must play without fear and at 2000 percent to overcome the 2022 semi-final loss.
He stressed the team will not use tactical surprises, saying he has nothing to hide and analysts already know Morocco’s approach.
Ouahbi added the squad is different from 2022, faces an evolved French team, and views the quarter-final as a chance to win the World Cup rather than just progress.

History

Historical Context

In the 1998 FIFA World Cup, Morocco faced France in the round of 16, losing 3–0 in Saint-Denis. The tournament featured 32 nations, and France, led by coach Aimé Jacquet, ultimately captured the title with a 3-0 victory over Brazil. Today, Morocco's 2026 quarter-final against France echoes that 1998 clash, as coach Mohamed Ouahbi vows a fearless 2,000-percent effort despite Ismael Saibari’s hamstring loss. If Morocco repeats the 1998 disappointment, the nation risks another early exit; a victory could rewrite its World Cup legacy and inspire future African squads.

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Saibari Misses Quarterfinal

Morocco announced forward Ismael Saibari will miss the quarter-final versus France because of a hamstring injury sustained against Canada.
Saibari scored in each of Morocco's first four matches – Brazil, Haiti, Scotland and the Netherlands.
Coach Mohamed Ouahbi said all other players are fit as Morocco, 2025 AFCON champions on a 34-match unbeaten run, prepare for the July 9, 2026 quarter-final at Boston Stadium, 19:00 GMT.

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