Scotland have been handed a major World Cup boost ahead of Friday’s crucial Group C clash with Morocco after two key Atlas Lions stars were ruled out of the tournament.
With Steve Clarke’s side chasing a place in the knockout stages, the timing could hardly be better.
Morocco impressed in their opening draw with Brazil and looked one of the strongest teams in the group. But they will now be without two important players for the rest of the competition.
Former West Ham defender Nayef Aguerd has been ruled out after failing to recover from a serious groin injury that required surgery. The setback was made worse when doctors discovered a pubic bone fracture during his rehabilitation, ending any hopes of featuring at the World Cup.
The Atlas Lions have also lost Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli. The 24-year-old suffered a knee injury during Morocco’s warm-up match against Norway and was forced to withdraw from the squad.
The double injury blow leaves Morocco without two experienced internationals who were expected to play key roles during the tournament.
Ezzalzouli enjoyed an outstanding club season, contributing 15 goals and 13 assists, while Aguerd’s leadership and defensive quality have been important for Morocco over recent years.
Morocco have drafted in Marwane Saadane and Amine Sbai as replacements, but losing two established stars so close to the tournament is far from ideal.
For Scotland, the news comes as Steve Clarke considers changes following the 1-0 victory over Haiti.
The Tartan Army know a positive result against Morocco would put them in a strong position to qualify from Group C, and the absence of two key Atlas Lions players could prove significant.
Morocco remain a dangerous side, but Scotland have undoubtedly been handed a major boost ahead of one of the biggest matches of their World Cup campaign.
The bottom line.
Two key Morocco stars ruled out. Scotland at near full strength. A place in the knockout stages potentially on the line.
Friday night in Boston just got even more interesting.
