Ismael Saibari's injury raises Morocco's World Cup quarter‑final doubts

Bayern Munich forward Ismael Saibari, the 25‑year‑old who joined from PSV Eindhoven for about €55 million, was forced to leave the round‑of‑16 match against co‑host Canada after 22 minutes due to a muscle injury. He was replaced by Soufiane Rahimi as Morocco held a 3‑0 lead in Houston.

The exact diagnosis remains pending, but the injury appears to have resulted from a clash with Canadian defender Moise Bombito and may involve the right thigh. Saibari had been crucial for Morocco, scoring in all three group games and converting the decisive penalty in the shoot‑out against the Netherlands.

Morocco now faces the winner of the France‑Paraguay quarter‑final, and Saibari's absence is described as a "real blow" for their chances of reaching the semifinals. Bayern expressed concern, hoping the player will recover quickly.

Canada, the first host nation to be eliminated, lost 3‑0, ending their tournament campaign.