Critical Hours for Ez Abde: Final Scans to Determine World Cup Fate or Replacement

All eyes are on the medical examinations that Abde Ezzalzouli, a Moroccan national team player, will undergo following an injury sustained during a friendly match against Norway. Initial tests revealed the injury is to his knee.

The results of these anticipated tests will be crucial in determining the player's participation in the 2026 World Cup finals. They will clarify whether he can remain on the "Atlas Lions" squad, potentially only missing the first two matches against Brazil and Scotland, or if the injury will prevent him from continuing his journey in the tournament.

Should the final examinations confirm that Ezzalzouli's injury requires a longer absence, the Moroccan national team may opt to replace him with another player, in accordance with FIFA regulations. A replacement would be chosen from either the reserve list or the expanded squad.

FIFA previously permitted the replacement of players in the final squads of participating World Cup teams in cases of serious injury or sudden illness, provided it is substantiated by the necessary medical documentation, and the replacement occurs no later than 24 hours before the team's first match in the tournament.

Ezzalzouli's fate remains uncertain pending the release of the final medical test results. These will determine whether he continues his dream of participating in the World Cup or is removed from the squad before the competition begins, less than a week before Morocco faces Brazil in the first group stage match.