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Rabat – Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo has hailed Morocco forward Soufiane Rahimi ahead of the Atlas Lions’ FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final against France, describing him as a versatile attacker and naming him the tournament’s “Player to Watch” for Thursday’s action.
The outlet highlighted Rahimi’s growing influence in Mohamed Ouahbi’s squad after the 30-year-old took full advantage of his chances against Canada in the Round of 16. Coming on to replace the injured Ismael Saibari, Rahimi scored Morocco’s third goal in stoppage time to complete a convincing 3-0 victory.
“Ouahbi chose him to replace the injured Saibari against Canada in the Round of 16, and he knew how to take advantage of the opportunity,” Mundo Deportivo wrote while introducing the Moroccan international.
The Spanish publication also praised Rahimi’s qualities, describing him as “a versatile forward” who can play both through the middle and on the wings. It added that he is “fast, agile, and precise in front of goal,” describing him as an important weapon in Morocco’s attack.
Despite not starting any of Morocco’s five World Cup matches so far, Rahimi has already scored twice and provided one assist. He opened his tournament account against Haiti in the final Group C match before finding the net again against Canada.
Mundo Deportivo also noted that Rahimi could be in line for his first start of the tournament against France, especially after Saibari’s muscle injury. The match is a repeat of the 2022 World Cup semi-final, where France ended Morocco’s historic run.
Developed at Raja Casablanca before moving to Al Ain, Rahimi has become one of Morocco’s most reliable attacking players. With 42 international appearances and 14 goals, the forward continues to earn recognition beyond Morocco, with international media now placing him among the players expected to shape the outcome of the World Cup quarter-finals.
