Zakaria El Ouahdi Cleared to Join Morocco for World Cup After Visa Hurdles
A tense situation surrounding Racing Genk defender Zakaria El Ouahdi was resolved just in time for the FIFA World Cup, allowing the player to travel to the United States with the Moroccan national team. The Genk-based athlete, who has been a key figure in his club’s defensive lineup, faced last-minute visa complications but ultimately received approval to join his national team for the tournament. The issue arose after El Ouahdi was initially denied boarding for the trip to the U.S., sparking concerns about his availability for Morocco’s World Cup campaign. However, officials confirmed that the visa problem was swiftly addressed, ensuring the player could depart as planned. “They always said it would be okay to come,” El Ouahdi reportedly said in a statement, reflecting the uncertainty that surrounded the situation. El Ouahdi’s inclusion in Morocco’s roster is significant, as the team relies on experienced defenders to navigate the competitive group stage. His ability to join the squad underscores the importance of seamless coordination between clubs and national teams during major tournaments. The resolution highlights the challenges athletes face when balancing club commitments with international duties, particularly in the wake of bureaucratic delays. For El Ouahdi, the successful outcome means he can now focus on contributing to Morocco’s World Cup aspirations.
