Rabat – Spain star Lamine Yamal has singled out Morocco international Ismael Saibari as the player who has impressed him the most at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, praising the Atlas Lion’s performances throughout the tournament.
Speaking in an interview with Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, Yamal was asked which player had surprised him the most during the competition. The Barcelona winger responded without hesitation: “Saibari, from Morocco.”
Saibari has emerged as one of Morocco’s standout performers during the tournament, playing a key role in the Atlas Lions’ run to the quarterfinals.
Saibari scored three goals during the competition, finding the net against Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. He also converted the decisive penalty in Morocco’s Round of 32 shootout victory over the Netherlands, helping send the Atlas Lions into the knockout stages.
His performances have earned widespread praise from fans, pundits, and fellow players, with Yamal becoming the latest high-profile name to acknowledge the Moroccan midfielder’s impact on the global stage.
The Spain international was also asked which team he hopes to face in the World Cup final naming defending champions Argentina.
Despite Saibari’s impressive campaign, Morocco will be without the midfielder for Thursday’s highly anticipated quarterfinal against France after he was ruled out through injury.
His absence represents a significant setback for head coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who has relied heavily on Saibari’s creativity and attacking presence throughout the tournament.
Morocco faces France later today in Foxborough, seeking a place in the World Cup semifinals for the second consecutive tournament.
