Morocco's Injury Update: Hakimi, Aguerd, and Saiss Gear Up for AFCON Clash with Mali
24 December 2025
Injury updates ahead of Mali clash
Morocco's medical staff have intensified rehabilitation for their injured players to ensure they are ready for Friday's clash with Mali, the second group-stage game of AFCON 2025.
Key players and expected roles
Sources say the trio—Adam Masina (Torino), Nayef Aguerd, and captain Achraf Hakimi—will be in the squad for the Mali game, with Aguerd potentially starting. Hakimi and Masina are expected to feature only limited minutes, as the medical team favors a gradual reintroduction for the PSG star in the second half.
Saiss absence and medical checks
In parallel, captain Romain Saiss will miss Mali and Zambia matches in the group stage due to a knee injury. He is set for further medical checks to determine whether he can still be part of the squad.
Outlook
Overall, Morocco hope to field a strong lineup against Mali, balancing attacking intent with caution after a tight tournament schedule. The squad will also be monitored closely in training, ready to adjust tactics if anyone shows signs of strain. Coaches stress the aim is performance and safety first.
Punchline 1: If injuries were a transfer window, Morocco's medical team would have signed the whole squad.
Punchline 2: In this camp, patience comes with a whistle and a gel pack—pretty sure even the footballs are on rest days.
