Morocco winger Abdessamad Ezzalzouli and defender Noussair Mazraoui both sustained injuries during their last warm-up match against Norway on June 7 ahead of the 2026 World Cup [1, 2]. Ezzalzouli was substituted at halftime due to a leg injury, while Mazraoui left the match in the 29th minute with a shoulder injury [1, 2].
The friendly ended in a 1-1 draw after Morocco took an early lead but conceded an equalizer 15 minutes from time [1, 2]. Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi said, "We left a good impression despite not winning because we really showed some very good things against a very good opponent. That's the point of playing against teams like this. When you make so many changes (10 in total), it’s difficult for the player but it was important that we managed everyone's playing time. Two players went off injured. We're waiting to see how serious it is. I’m more concerned about that" [1].
Morocco made 10 changes throughout the match as part of their final preparations [1, 2]. The North African team, surprise semi-finalists in the last World Cup, have high hopes for a strong campaign in 2026 [1, 2]. They will open Group D with a match against five-time champions Brazil at the New York New Jersey Stadium on June 11 [1, 2].
The fitness of Ezzalzouli and Mazraoui remains uncertain as Morocco approaches this crucial opening fixture. Team officials are monitoring their conditions closely to assess their availability for the clash with Brazil [1].