As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, Moroccan star Achraf Hakimi carries the weight of a significant legacy established by the "Atlas Lions" during the 2022 Qatar World Cup, where they made history as the first Arab and African team to reach the semi-finals. This remarkable achievement saw them eliminate powerhouse teams like Spain and Portugal, captivating the hearts of fans worldwide. Hakimi, playing as a defender for Paris Saint-Germain, emerged as a pivotal figure in this extraordinary journey, with his coolly executed Panenka penalty kick against Spain etching itself into the memories of supporters as a testament to his ability to perform under immense pressure.
The Challenge of the 2026 World Cup: Morocco as a Force to Reckon With
Entering the 2026 World Cup, the Moroccan national team is not viewed as a potential dark horse but rather as a formidable contender with high expectations. This shift in perception heightens the responsibility on Hakimi, who, at 27 years old, is seen as a crucial player capable of seamlessly transitioning between defense and attack on the right flank. This leadership role starkly contrasts the initial impressions formed by coaches during his early European career. In 2019, his former coach at Borussia Dortmund, Lucien Favre, praised Hakimi for his attacking instincts, noting his significant threat when advancing, despite the fact that he was still adapting to this tactical role at the time. Over the years, Hakimi has transformed into a well-rounded player, embodying both defensive solidity and offensive prowess.
Hakimi's journey has not been without challenges. Amidst a grueling domestic and European season, an ankle injury at the end of 2025 threatened his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations hosted by Morocco earlier this year. However, demonstrating remarkable resilience, he pushed through his injury and returned to lead his country to the finals against Senegal. With the appointment of coach Mohamed Wahbi succeeding Walid Rekragui, Hakimi has maintained his form, showcasing new leadership qualities and successfully contributing to three goals in the first two matches under the new coach.
Hakimi's Ambition: Aiming for Greater Heights in the World Cup
In recent press statements, Hakimi expressed unwavering confidence in the current squad's ability to surpass the achievements of 2022, emphasizing that the team will do everything possible to bring joy to their fans. He stated that the clear objective for the Atlas Lions is to progress as far as possible in the tournament. With a wealth of experience gained on European pitches and an expanding leadership role within the national team, Hakimi enters the upcoming World Cup not only as a player known for his rapid sprints but also as one capable of transforming his past experiences into a decisive presence in a tournament that will test not just his talent but the sustained success of his generation.
As reported by aljazeera.net.
