Morocco began preparations Monday at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maâmora for upcoming matches against Gabon, Lesotho and Ghana, without Achraf Hakimi and Ismaël Saibari, who missed the session due to travel schedules rather than fitness issues and are expected to join the group Wednesday.
Training began Monday at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maâmora, with the session focused on restoring physical condition ahead of the busy schedule.
Monday’s session at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maâmora centered on rebuilding fitness ahead of Morocco’s demanding qualifying window.
Almost the entire squad reported, though Achraf Hakimi and Ismaël Saibari were absent.
According to the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, both absences were linked to travel schedules rather than fitness concerns, with the pair expected to join the group on Wednesday, 23 September.
Hakimi faces a two-match suspension stemming from disciplinary sanctions tied to incidents during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal, ruling him out against Gabon and Lesotho.
His condition is also being monitored, with reports of a thigh or adductor issue adding further uncertainty over his return.
Saibari received a one-match ban connected to the same incidents, missing the Gabon fixture but available against Lesotho.
He is expected to integrate fully with the squad before Ouahbi’s first match in charge.
Morocco hosts Gabon on Friday, 25 September, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, kicking off at 19:00 local time in a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier and Ouahbi’s competitive debut as senior coach.
Four days later, on Tuesday, 29 September, the Atlas Lions travel to Bloemfontein, South Africa, to face Lesotho at the Toyota Stadium in their second qualifier of the campaign.
The window closes with a friendly against Ghana on Sunday, 4 October, at the Grand Stade de Tanger, giving Ouahbi a chance to assess newly called-up players and distribute playing time before qualifying resumes. This period of preparation reflects the broader spirit of pride and passion that has long defined Morocco’s national team on the international stage.
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