Morocco have been forced into a last-minute reshuffle of their FIFA World Cup squad following injuries to two key players, with Nayef Aguerd and Abde Ezzalzouli both ruled out of the tournament.

The Atlas Lions confirmed that the two players will not travel with the squad, with replacements called in to fill the gaps left by the pair. The withdrawals represent a significant blow for Morocco as they prepare for one of the biggest tournaments in the nation's history.

Aguerd, a commanding centre-back who has been a cornerstone of Morocco's defensive setup in recent years, joins Ezzalzouli on the injury list at the worst possible moment. Ezzalzouli, who plays his club football in Spain, had been considered a key creative option in the Moroccan attack.

Morocco are among the most anticipated sides at the World Cup after their historic run to the semi-finals at the 2022 tournament in Qatar, where they became the first African nation to reach that stage. Expectations remain high heading into this edition, making the timing of these absences particularly painful for manager Walid Regragui and his technical staff.

The Moroccan football federation moved swiftly to name replacements, ensuring the squad remains competitive ahead of their opening fixtures. The Atlas Lions will be determined to show that their depth is strong enough to absorb such setbacks and mount another memorable campaign.