Real Madrid star Ibrahim Diaz surprised national coach Mohamed Wahbi with a personal request to participate in the much-anticipated match today, Friday, against Gabon. This match is part of the first round of qualifiers for the Africa Cup of Nations and is held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat, adding great significance to the start of the national team’s journey.
Press reports revealed that Ibrahim Diaz’s participation in the match depends on the approval of the national team’s medical staff, following the player’s recent muscle injury. This injury had prompted the coaching staff to call up Elyas Akhoumash as a potential replacement for the same position, reflecting the coach’s keenness on having all elements ready.
Although Ibrahim Diaz’s injury was not serious, the technical staff of the national team had preferred to rest him to avoid any possible worsening of the condition. However, it seems the strong desire of the Real Madrid star to represent his country and compete drove him to make this request, emphasizing his commitment and enthusiasm to contribute with his teammates to achieving victory.
In a related context, Ismail Al-Saibari and Achraf Hakimi will miss today’s match due to suspension issued by the Disciplinary Committee of the Confederation of African Football. This decision came in light of the events witnessed during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal at the same sports complex in Rabat, which poses additional challenges for the coach in selecting the starting lineup.
