World Cup: Morocco's Sofyan Amrabat takes his time in the dressing room

Morocco gave world runners-up Croatia plenty to think about in their opening Group F game. Starting the match well, Walid Regragui's men went toe-to-toe with Luka Modric's side and could even have hoped for more than a draw (0-0).

But beyond the Atlas Lions' fine display, one moment in the game drew particular attention. As the two teams came back out from the dressing rooms after the break, the referee noticed that a player was missing from the pitch. And that player was none other than... Sofyan Amrabat.

Read more on the same subject: World Cup 2022: Morocco hold Croatia

The Fiorentina midfielder was indeed a little late getting back onto the pitch. The delay left his national team coach, Walid Regragui, seething. The match director showed the furious Moroccan coach venting to one of his assistants. The assistant quickly went towards the dressing rooms to see what was keeping the 26-year-old. A few seconds later he returned with the latecomer, who finally appeared striding out at pace.

https://twitter.com/FOXSoccer/status/1595373149964509184?s=20&t=hvQ9qIeWZ8T18IUBuyEFlg

An unusual incident that has been getting people talking online ever since. Many curious fans are wondering what could have been so urgent to keep Sofyan Amrabat in the dressing room for so long. Until we find out the answer one day, one thing is certain: it did not stop the Atlas Lion from putting in a big performance in the Moroccan midfield, severely hampering Croatian talisman Luka Modric.

Morocco face Belgium next Sunday in their second Group F match.