The report says Mazraoui left the friendly against Norway before half-time after going down with discomfort, with Youssef Belammari replacing him. No diagnosis or recovery timeline has been confirmed, making the next few days crucial for Morocco’s medical staff.
Mazraoui’s versatility has made him an important part of the team’s defensive structure. His ability to play on either side and contribute in possession gives Morocco flexibility, particularly against a Brazil side expected to test the flanks. Any absence would therefore create a selection problem at the worst possible moment.
Morocco arrive at Group C with a different level of attention after their remarkable run to the semi-finals in Qatar. Mazraoui acknowledged that the tournament setting also feels different.
“É diferente, claro, no meio da temporada, é diferente em todos os aspectos, fisicamente e mentalmente também. No fim da temporada, você tem a temporada inteira antes disso; meia temporada, como foi no Qatar, é diferente.”
He also recalled the freedom Morocco carried into that previous campaign, when few expected them to reach the latter stages. This time, the surprise factor has gone. The team is no longer an outsider without expectations; it is a contender carrying a heavier burden.
Mazraoui has reportedly discussed the tournament with Casemiro and Cunha, two Manchester United teammates who could end up on the opposite side of the battle. The prospect of facing Cunha directly adds a personal subplot to an already demanding opener.
“Sim, foi um pouco diferente. Estou falando como se tivesse disputado quatro Copas, mas foi a minha primeira!”, he said when reflecting on his World Cup experience.
Morocco’s immediate storyline is now Mazraoui’s condition. The next update before Saturday’s meeting at MetLife Stadium could determine whether that much-discussed duel with Cunha takes place.