Who replaces Ezzalzouli? 7 tactical solutions for Morocco ahead of Brazil clash!

Africa Today at 14:14

Khaled Hegazy

News Editor

13.06.26 18:00 World Cup

Brazil

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Morocco

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Morocco faces a massive test as winger Abde Ezzalzouli is ruled out of Saturday's World Cup opener against Brazil due to a severe warm-up injury.

Read Also: Africa’s World Cup injury list: The stars ruled out and those racing to be fit

A devastating absence for the group stage

The Real Betis star suffered a heavy knock during a recent preparation match against Norway. The medical staff has officially ruled him out of the entire group stage leaving a significant gap in the attack as the squad prepares to navigate Group C which features high stakes fixtures against Brazil, Haiti and Scotland.

The Premier League Spark

Head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has 7 primary pathways to rebuild his left wing starting with Chemsdine Talbi. The Sunderland attacker brings immense tactical fluidity operating comfortably out wide or as a secondary striker.

Talbi has proven his worth in the Premier League this season netting three goals across 10 appearances on the left flank including clutch strikes against Newcastle United, Liverpool and Burnley.

The ultimate tactical chameleon

If Ouahbi prioritizes elite versatility, Azzedine Ounahi is the perfect wildcard.

Traditionally a central operator, the Girona standout is a true tactical "joker" on the pitch. Ounahi shifted to the left wing five times for the Catalan club during the latest campaign scoring 2 impressive goals against Athletic Bilbao & Real Betis.

The eredivisie powerhouse

Ismael Saibari represents a highly physical alternative. The PSV Eindhoven star thrives on positional maturity and raw power.

Saibari logged 13 match on the left for his Dutch club this season delivering 4 total goal contributions.

The ceteran wildcard

Expanding the tactical scope beyond the initial projections, Soufiane Rahimi offers a heavily proven solution. The Al Ain forward has routinely terrorized defenses from the left wing throughout his career winning major continental silverware.

Eliesse Ben Seghir offers creativity

AS Monaco’s rising star Eliesse Ben Seghir is one of the most exciting profiles available. Naturally an attacking midfielder, he has frequently operated from the left, cutting inside and creating chances.

Sofiane Boufal remains a proven solution

Despite inconsistent club form, Sofiane Boufal remains a trusted figure for Morocco in major tournaments. His dribbling ability and experience in high-pressure matches make him a strong candidate to step in immediately.

Amine Adli brings directness and pace

Bayer Leverkusen’s Amine Adli is another serious option. Known for his speed and vertical play, he fits well in transition-based systems.

A history of overcoming adversity

Losing a marquee forward on the eve of a major tournament is a worst case scenario but stepping up during an injury crisis is deeply encoded in Morocco's footballing DNA.

During their legendary run to the semi-finals at World Cup 2022 in Qatar, the Atlas Lions lost the absolute core of their defense including Nayef Aguerd, Romain Saiss and Noussair Mazraoui, to severe muscular injuries.

Instead of collapsing under the pressure against European heavyweights like Spain and Portugal, rotational players stepped directly into the fire and delivered flawless performances.

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