The preparations of Morocco for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been overshadowed by concerns over the fitness of defender Noussair Mazraoui after he was forced off during a friendly match against Norway in the United States.
The injury comes at a crucial stage of the Atlas Lions’ build-up to the tournament, with coach Mohamed Ouahbi finalising plans for a challenging Group C campaign that includes matches against Brazil, Scotland and Haiti.
Mazraoui, who plays his club football for Manchester United, started Sunday’s warm-up game in an unfamiliar role on the left side of defence.
With captain Achraf Hakimi firmly established at right-back, the versatile defender was tasked with providing balance on the opposite flank.
However, Morocco’s plans suffered a setback after just 28 minutes when Mazraoui went down with what was described as a muscle problem. The defender was unable to continue and left the pitch limping, prompting immediate concern among the coaching staff.
With the World Cup only days away, Ouahbi opted not to take any risks and withdrew the defender immediately.
His departure forced a tactical reshuffle, with Youssef Belammari introduced to strengthen the defensive line.
The incident has created uncertainty around one of Morocco’s most experienced players at a time when continuity and stability are vital.
The Atlas Lions enter the tournament carrying the weight of heightened expectations following their historic run to the semi-finals at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where they became the first African and Arab nation to reach the last four of the competition.
Mazraoui’s importance to the side extends beyond his defensive duties.
His ability to operate in multiple positions has given Morocco tactical flexibility, particularly in matches against elite opposition. Recent performances had also suggested he was arriving at the World Cup in strong form.
In Morocco’s previous preparation match against Madagascar, the defender contributed an assist and came close to scoring himself with an effort that struck the crossbar. Those displays reinforced his status as a key figure in the squad heading into the tournament.
The concerns were not limited to Mazraoui. Winger Abde Ezzalzouli also appeared to struggle physically after several heavy challenges during the first half, although he was able to continue.
The sight of another important player in discomfort added to the anxiety surrounding Morocco’s final pre-World Cup outing.
Despite the injury concerns, the Atlas Lions reportedly produced an encouraging opening 45 minutes against a Norwegian side considered among the stronger teams preparing for the tournament.
Morocco’s performance suggested the squad remains in competitive shape, even as fitness issues threaten to disrupt preparations.
Attention has now shifted to the medical team, which faces a race against time to determine the severity of Mazraoui’s injury.
The hope within the Moroccan camp is that the problem proves minor and does not jeopardise his participation in the opening group-stage clash against Brazil.
