Morocco are waiting on further medical assessment on Ismael Saibari after the midfielder was forced off during their 3-0 victory over Canada in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 on Saturday night.
Saibari left the pitch in the 22nd minute after signalling discomfort in his thigh, triggering early concerns over a potential hamstring strain that could affect his availability for the quarter-finals.
Initial reports have suggested the injury could range from a minor 3–5 day strain to a more serious Grade 2 tear that could keep the player out for up to six weeks.
However, Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has urged caution, stressing that no formal diagnosis had yet been confirmed.
Speaking after the match, Ouahbi said the medical team had not yet completed their assessment of the player, and he had not personally met with the team doctor at the time of his press conference.
He explained that the full extent of Saibari’s condition would only become clear once medical evaluations were completed, with Morocco expected to monitor the situation closely ahead of their next fixture.
Saibari’s early exit was one of the few setbacks on an otherwise dominant night for the Atlas Lions, who produced a commanding display to secure their place in the last eight of the tournament.
Morocco overcame a physical and high-tempo challenge from co-hosts Canada, particularly in a first half marked by intense pressing and attempts to disrupt their rhythm.
Despite the early pressure, Morocco gradually took control of the contest, with Azzedine Ounahi emerging as the decisive figure. The midfielder struck twice to give his side a firm grip on the match.
Soufiane Rahimi also added his name to the scoresheet, scoring his second goal of the tournament to complete a confident 3-0 victory for the African side.
The result ensures Morocco’s progression to the quarter-finals, continuing their impressive run at the World Cup.
Attention now turns to the fitness of Saibari, whose injury status remains uncertain at a crucial stage of the competition.
Any prolonged absence would be a significant concern for Morocco, given his importance to the team’s attacking structure and his recent form in the tournament.
