Achraf Hakimi, the celebrated Moroccan international footballer, has reached yet another significant milestone in his illustrious career by participating in Morocco's World Cup opener against Brazil. This match, part of the much-anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup currently taking place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marked a historic moment for the 27-year-old defender.
Hakimi's appearance in the Group C clash against Brazil was not just another game; it was his 11th match in World Cup history, officially making him the most-capped Moroccan player ever in the tournament's history. This achievement places him ahead of his former teammate Hakim Ziyech, who had previously set the record with 10 appearances for the Atlas Lions.
In addition to his national record, Hakimi's participation in this match has tied him with notable African players for the most World Cup appearances. He now shares this honor with former Cameroon midfielder François Omam-Biyik and retired Ghanaian striker Asamoah Gyan, according to statistics from Transfermarkt. Hakimi made his World Cup debut during the 2018 tournament held in Russia, where he showcased his talents by playing in all three of Morocco’s group-stage matches.
Continuing his impressive trajectory, Hakimi also played a pivotal role in Morocco's remarkable journey during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He participated in all seven of Morocco's matches, helping the team achieve an unprecedented feat as the first African and Arab nation to reach the semifinals of the tournament. His recent contributions to the sport extend beyond the international stage; he recently celebrated a UEFA Champions League victory with Paris Saint-Germain, underscoring his status as one of football's elite defenders.
With Morocco poised for a strong performance in the ongoing tournament, Hakimi has the opportunity to further extend his record as the outright African leader for World Cup appearances in the forthcoming matches. This promising prospect not only highlights Hakimi's exceptional skills on the field but also cements his legacy in the world of football.
As reported by en.hespress.com.
