Morocco sweats for Ezzalzouli and Mazraoui before the first World Cup match against Brazil

Abayomi Ademola

Morocco have suffered an injury ahead of their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Brazil, with the duo of Abdessamad Ezzalzouli and Noussair Mazraoui emerging as major doubts for the Group D clash.

The pair were injured during the Atlas Lions’ 1-1 draw against Norway in their final warm-up match on Sunday. Ezzalzouli was taken off at half-time after suffering a leg injury, while Mazraoui lasted just 29 minutes before being forced off with a shoulder problem.

Despite injury setbacks, Morocco impressed for long periods against the Norwegians and looked set for victory after taking an early lead before conceding a late equalizer. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi admitted that his main concern after the match was the condition of the injured players rather than the result.

“We made a good impression despite not winning because we really showed very good things against a very good opponent,” Ouahbi told reporters. “That’s the point of playing against teams like this. When you make so many changes, it’s difficult for the player, but it was important that we manage everyone’s playing time. Two players got injured. We’re waiting to see how bad it is. I’m more worried about that.”

The North Africans, who shocked the football world by reaching the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup, will begin their 2026 campaign against five-time champions Brazil at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, with hopes high of another memorable run on the world stage.