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How Morocco could line up against Belgium

sportsmole.co.uk, 25 November 2022, 22:16
Having held Croatia to a goalless draw in their opening World Cup match, and then been lauded for their defensive commitment in the aftermath, Morocco are expected to retain the bulk of their starting XI for Sunday's contest with Belgium.

After grinding out a point in Al Khor, the Atlas Lions remain in the mix to reach the knockout stages, and now facing another stern test in Group F, coach Walid Regragui is set to favour continuity this weekend.

One enforced change could perhaps alter the Moroccan team that kicked off the tournament, as Bayern Munich full-back Noussair Mazraoui was a doubt due to being stretchered off on Wednesday, but further investigation suggests he will not be ruled out.

While Yahia Attiyat-Allah, who appeared as Mazraoui's replacement against Croatia, is ready to deputise at left-back if necessary, Regragui's rearguard could remain entirely unchanged.

That would see Sevilla goalkeeper Yassine Bounou start behind Mazraoui and Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi on the flanks, with Romain Saiss and West Ham United's Nayef Aguerd teaming up again at the heart of the defence.

Meanwhile, midfield regulator Sofyan Amrabat - who was shown a yellow card in the opening game, and would miss the upcoming clash with Canada should he receive another - continues to run Morocco's central trio.

Despite competition from Barcelona youngster Abde Ezzalzouli and Sampdoria's Abdelhamid Sabiri, an attacking trident comprising Hakim Ziyech, Youssef En-Nesyri and Sofiane Boufal is also poised to go back-to-back following three days rest and recuperation.

Morocco possible starting lineup: Bounou; Hakimi, Aguerd, Saiss, Mazraoui; Ounahi, Amrabat, Amallah; Ziyech, En-Nesyri, Boufal

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