Mazraoui and Ezzalzouli injury concerns for Morocco ahead of World Cup opener

Both players were substituted early in Sunday's 1-1 draw with Norway, their final warm-up match before the tournament kicks off this week in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Ezzalzouli was replaced at half-time after sustaining a leg injury, while Mazraoui left the pitch in the 29th minute with a shoulder problem following a tough encounter. Morocco took an early lead but Norway equalised with 15 minutes remaining.

"We left a good impression despite not winning because we really showed some very good things against a very good opponent," coach Mohamed Ouahbi told reporters.

"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," the coach added.

Morocco were surprise semi-finalists at the last World Cup and have high hopes of another strong performance at the 2026 finals.

They open proceedings in Group D with the clash against the five-time champions at the MetLife Stadium.