World Cup 2026: Ayyoub Bouaddi vindicated in choosing Morocco after outshining Brazil

In his first competitive international appearance, 18-year-old midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi starred for Morocco in a 1-1 World Cup draw with Brazil, leaving Casemiro chasing shadows and prompting Carlo Ancelotti to substitute him at half-time. Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi said he was not surprised, as the team had worked hard to persuade Bouaddi, born in France to Moroccan parents, to switch allegiance. Bouaddi was cleared by FIFA to represent Morocco in May and had played three friendlies previously.