Morocco have sidelined two defenders for their World Cup qualifier against Gabon on October 7 in Casablanca. With 6 points and second placed in Group C, the Atlas Lions are chasing the group’s sole ticket to the 2018 World Cup.
Gabon are also in contention, with 5 points and sitting third in the group, they could move to second position if they snatch a win on the road on Saturday.
However, Jawad El Yamiq of Raja Casablanca and Manuel Da Costa of Başakşehir will not play part in the crucial meeting after sustaining injuries at their clubs last weekend. Another Raja player, Badr Banoun has been invited by coach Herve Renard as replacement, while Dijon defender Fouad Chafik reported to camp on Wednesday to take the place of Hamza Mendyl, who is still dragging a knee pain, according to a medical report from the team.
Morocco and Gabon settled for a goalless draw when they first met in the reverse fixture in October last year.
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The Panthers have been handed a boost after welcoming star player Pierre Emerick Aubameyang, who left the team following their debacle at the 2017 Africa Cup on Nations hosted on home soil early this year.
