AYOUB el Kaabi, the 25-year-old forward, would be the one to keep an eye on when Morocco face Iran today in the first game of Group ‘B’. Kaabi made his international debut for Morocco on in January this year during the African Nations Championship.

He scored his first international hat-trick against Guinea, four days after his debut on Jan 13.

Kaabi might not have the sleek precision of Hakim Ziyech or the French-born Younes Belhanda but he wants to write his own story.

Kaabi plays for Renaissance Sportive de Berkane in Morocco and announced his presence as an able prospect for the country when he scored 22 goals in the 2016/17 season.

He is known to have a unique raw playing style and an easy slingy power which has made him a cult hero back at home.

With Morocco being the underdogs in their World Cup group, it will be interesting to see if Kaabi can spring a surprise and guide them through the group stages.

Opinion

Rule by law

Rule by law

‘The rule of law’ is being weaponised, taking on whatever meaning that fits the political objectives of those invoking it.

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