India, July 10 -- Morocco fans received a major setback before their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal against France when Ismael Saibari was left out of the starting line-up. The Bayern Munich forward has been one of Morocco's most important players at the tournament, scoring in all three group-stage matches and helping the Atlas Lions reach the knockout rounds.

However, a muscle injury suffered during Morocco's Round of 16 win over Canada ruled him out of Thursday's match in Boston. Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi later confirmed that Saibari was not fit enough to return against France, although he remains hopeful the striker could play again if Morocco advances further in the competition.

Saibari's absence is linked to the injury he...