What happened: The Moroccan national team has officially withdrawn Nayef Aguerd and Abde Ezzalzouli from their squad just days before their World Cup opener. The African federation announced the changes due to force majeure after both players failed to recover from respective fitness issues.
Why it matters: The absence of Aguerd in central defense and Abde's attacking threat on the flank significantly thins Morocco's depth for a challenging Group D campaign. Both players were expected to be starters, and their late withdrawal forces an immediate tactical adjustment as the team prepares for its first match.
By the numbers: Marwane Saâdane will replace Aguerd wearing the number 5 shirt, while Amine Sbaï replaces Abde with the number 17. Abde was ruled out following an MCL sprain sustained during a friendly against Norway.
What to watch: Morocco is scheduled to begin its World Cup journey against Brazil on June 14.