Major Setback for Hosts Morocco Ahead of Round of 16 Clash.

Azzedine Ounahi

In a devastating blow to hosts Morocco‘s Africa Cup of Nations campaign, key midfielder Azzedine Ounahi has been ruled out for the rest of the tournament following a serious leg injury sustained in training.

The 25-year-old Girona star was spotted arriving at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on crutches and wearing a substantial protective brace just hours before the Round of 16 clash against Tanzania on January 4, 2026.

Reports from reliable sources, including Foot Mercato and Hesport, confirm Ounahi will miss the entire knockout stage, with recovery projected at around six weeks. This not only ends his AFCON participation but could delay his return to La Liga action with Girona.

Azzedine Ounahi injury AFCON 2025

Ounahi, a standout at the 2022 World Cup where he earned praise from Spain’s Luis Enrique, has been instrumental in Morocco’s midfield with his vision, energy, and ball progression. His absence forces coach Walid Regragui to rely on alternatives like Bilal El Khannouss or Oussama Targhalline.

The Atlas Lions, chasing their first AFCON title since 1976 on home soil, face Tanzania with added pressure amid this untimely setback.