Morocco begins final preparations for Canada after Netherlands marathon

Morocco begins final preparations for Canada after Netherlands marathon
Thursday 2 July 2026 - 12:17

Morocco arrived in Houston on Wednesday to begin final preparations for its World Cup last-16 match against Canada, with Chadi Riad and Ismael Saibari expected to train after injury concerns eased.

The Atlas Lions travelled from Monterrey, where they eliminated the Netherlands on penalties after a 1-1 draw and 120 minutes of football.

Moroccan media reported that medical examinations found no serious injuries for Riad and Saibari, who both sustained knocks during the match. The pair are expected to take part in Morocco’s first Houston training session with the rest of the squad.

Coach Mohamed Ouahbi must manage his players’ recovery after the demanding Netherlands tie, with Canada identifying its greater rest and physical condition as a possible advantage.

Morocco will face the tournament co-hosts at Houston Stadium on Saturday at noon local time, or 6 p.m. in Morocco.

The winner will advance to the World Cup quarter-finals.

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