Morocco-France: Saibari’s availability hinges on second MRI results

Ismael Saibari during Morocco's 2026 FIFA World Cup round-of-16 match against the Netherlands in Monterrey, Mexico.

Substituted after just 22 minutes against Canada, Ismael Saibari will undergo further medical tests on Monday, just days before Morocco’s 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinal against France. Early indications, however, suggest the injury may be less serious than initially feared.

On 06/07/2026 at 16h00

Will Ismael Saibari be fit to face France in the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup? The Bayern Munich forward is set to undergo a second MRI scan on Monday, July 6, in Boston to determine the full extent of his injury.

According to early reports, the injury appears to be less serious than initially feared. With Morocco’s quarterfinal against France scheduled for Thursday, July 9, at 9 p.m. (Moroccan time), the race is on to recover one of Mohamed Ouahbi’s key starters in time for the clash.

Saibari has been one of Morocco’s standout performers since the start of the tournament, scoring three goals in five appearances.

Capable of breaking through defensive lines, making relentless runs, creating danger inside the penalty area, and, above all, unlocking difficult situations with moments of individual brilliance, his presence against Les Bleus would be a major boost for the Atlas Lions.

The 25-year-old is competing in his third major tournament with Morocco, following the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire and the 2025 AFCON, which the Atlas Lions won on home soil in January.

By Oumeïma Er-rafay
On 06/07/2026 at 16h00