Exciting Start for Morocco's National Team
After a two-and-a-half-month hiatus following their quarter-final exit from the World Cup, the Lions of the Atlas are set to kick off their qualifying campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) this Friday in Rabat against Gabon. This match is particularly significant as it marks the beginning of a new cycle for the national team, which is eager to capitalize on its recent successes. However, the team faces challenges with key players absent due to suspensions and injuries. Notably, Ismael Saibari, who scored three goals during the World Cup, and captain Achraf Hakimi will not be participating in this crucial opener. In addition to these suspensions, coach Mohamed Ouahbi must also navigate the absence of Ayoub El Kaabi and Chadi Riad due to injuries. Although Tawfik Bentayeb has been cleared to join the squad after a facial injury, FIFA's concussion protocol means he will miss this match. To bolster the team, Ouahbi has called up Villarreal winger Ilias Akhomach.
Maintaining Team Integrity Amidst Challenges
Despite the setbacks, the core of the Lions' squad remains intact, ensuring competitiveness as they embark on this qualifying journey. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, defender Noussair Mazraoui, and central defender Nayef Aguerd, who missed the World Cup due to injury, are expected to play pivotal roles. The midfield trio of Azzedine Ounahi, Neil El Aynaoui, and Ayyoub Bouaddi, who impressed during the World Cup, will likely be retained, while forwards Brahim Diaz and Soufiane Rahimi are tasked with creating offensive threats. Moreover, this international break presents an opportunity for young talents like goalkeeper Alaa Bellaarouch (Dinamo Bucharest), midfielder Soufiane El-Faouzi (Schalke 04), and Abdellah Ouazane (Ajax Amsterdam) to make their mark. The returning players Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal, Oussama Targhalline, and Yassir Zabiri also have the chance to shine, with Zabiri in particular showcasing his scoring prowess this season with six goals in seven matches for his club, Santander, including a notable performance against FC Barcelona.
As the Lions prepare for their match against Gabon, the absence of key scorers like Saibari and El Kaabi could open the door for Zabiri to step into the spotlight. With a commendable track record, having been the joint top scorer in the recent U20 World Cup, he is poised to showcase his abilities on this larger stage. It is noteworthy that eight out of the 26 players called up by Mohamed Ouahbi for this international break hail from the Mohammed VI Academy, highlighting the ongoing generational shift within the team.
As reported by leseco.ma.
