Achraf Hakimi Set for AFCON Debut as Morocco Face Zambia in Crucial Group Clash

African Player of the Year Achraf Hakimi is set to feature for the first time at the Africa Cup of Nations when hosts Morocco face Zambia on Monday, head coach Walid Regragui confirmed on Sunday.

Speaking in Rabat ahead of Morocco’s final Group A match, Regragui praised Hakimi’s determination in returning from injury.
“What he has done to come back is extraordinary,” the coach said. “Achraf will play tomorrow. Whether he starts or not, this will be his first match at the AFCON.”

Hakimi has been sidelined since early November after suffering an ankle injury while playing for Paris Saint-Germain. He was named on the bench but did not feature in Morocco’s opening two games of the tournament.

Despite his absence, Morocco opened their campaign with a 2–0 victory over Comoros, followed by a 1–1 draw against Mali on Friday. The results leave the Atlas Lions top of Group A with four points, and a win over Zambia will ensure they progress to the last 16 as group winners. Even a draw would be enough to secure qualification.

Regragui emphasized Hakimi’s importance to the squad, describing him as a key leader.
“People don’t always realise what Achraf brings to this team. We have played without our best player, our captain and leader, but the team has responded well,” he said. “Still, with Achraf, we are a different side. He is the best player in Africa and one of the best in the world.”

Hakimi himself admitted it had been difficult watching from the sidelines and expressed disappointment at hearing sections of the home crowd boo the team during the draw with Mali.

“We understand the expectations. Fans want us to win quickly, but we must also respect our opponents,” Hakimi said. “It is not normal to be booed. We need the supporters behind us.”

Drawing parallels with his experience at PSG, Hakimi added that belief and unity can lead to success.
“At PSG, people doubted us when results were not good, but we went on to win the Champions League. If our fans support us, we can win the Africa Cup together.”

The Moroccan defender also revealed his happiness at seeing Kylian Mbappé, his close friend and former PSG teammate, in attendance at the Mali match.
“It was special to see him here. He loves Morocco, the culture and the food, and he visits whenever he can with his family,” Hakimi said.