2026 World Cup: Ismael Saibari, new offensive leader for Morocco?

A repositioning to his advantage

Under Walid Regragui, Ismael Saibari has always played in his usual position, that is, in midfield. In a number 10 role, on the left or right to support Ayoub El-Kaabi, who was the center forward favored by the former coach. In this lieutenant position, Saibari was decisive, but remained in El Kaabi’s shadow.

From the moment he arrived, Mohamed Ouahbi stepped off the beaten path and reconfigured the tactical setup of the Lions of the Atlas by shifting to a 4-2-3-1 that best showcases Ismael Saibari, putting him at center forward. The PSV striker, being closer to goal, is in better conditions to shine and showed it against Brazil with his ability to make runs in behind. It was in this area that he opened the scoring in the 1-1 draw, the first outing for the Lions of the Atlas in this 2026 World Cup.

Confirmation expected against Scotland

By giving him new responsibilities, Mohamed Ouahbi is also putting pressure on Ismael Saibari, who now must prove he can be the new attacking leader of Morocco. After scoring straight away against the Seleçao, the 25-year-old striker is highly anticipated for the second matchday against Scotland tonight (10pm GMT).

In a match that is already the most important for Morocco in this first round, Ismael Saibari must confirm his new status with another major performance to lead the Lions of the Atlas to a win that will mathematically guarantee them qualification for the round of 32, as at worst they’ll be third in the group. Beating group leaders Scotland would be even more encouraging for the rest of the competition.

By not giving Ayoub El Kaabi (32 years old) a single minute against Brazil—even though he is the top scorer of his generation with 35 goals in 71 caps—Mohamed Ouahbi is sending a message of gradual generational renewal, favoring younger players like Saibari, who must continue to prove he can be the worthy successor to the Olympiakos striker.