Alarm over $63 million World Cup breakout star

The strong World Cup that Ismael Saibari was enjoying, with three goals making him Morocco’s top scorer in the tournament, took a turn in the 20th minute of the match against Canada. The Bayern newcomer, for whom the club paid around $63 million, had to be substituted with what appeared to be a muscle problem in the back of his right leg. The match is over and, if Morocco advance, the World Cup could already be over for the Terrassa-born player.

Saibari felt discomfort during an attack that ultimately would not have counted, as the move was ruled offside. He was replaced by Rahimi. Saibari received treatment on the pitch from Morocco’s medical staff, who immediately signalled for a substitution. On the bench, the Moroccan international could be seen visibly distressed, covering his face.

Morocco’s attacking dependence on Saibari up to this round of 16 is reflected in the numbers. The Bayern newcomer scored three of his country’s seven goals and was the only player to score more than once across Morocco’s first four matches.

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