Morocco’s highly anticipated return to form at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is set to receive a significant boost with the expected debut of Achraf Hakimi in their final group stage match against Zambia on Monday. The reigning African Player of the Year has been sidelined with an ankle injury since November, but coach Walid Regragui confirmed Hakimi will see playing time in the crucial fixture. This news comes as Morocco aims to secure their place in the knockout stages of the tournament.
The match, taking place in Rabat, is pivotal for both teams. Morocco currently leads Group A with four points, while Zambia trails with two. A win for Morocco guarantees first place, while a draw would also see them advance. The stakes are high as teams vie for a spot in the round of 16 and a chance to compete for the coveted AFCON title.
Achraf Hakimi’s Return: A Game Changer for Morocco
Hakimi’s absence has been keenly felt by the Moroccan squad. Regragui emphasized the player’s importance, stating he is “the best player in Africa, one of the best in the world.” Morocco has managed to secure positive results – a 2-0 victory over Comoros and a 1-1 draw against Mali – without their captain, but the coach believes Hakimi’s presence elevates the team’s performance significantly.
The Paris Saint-Germain defender has been undergoing intensive rehabilitation to recover from the ankle injury sustained during a Ligue 1 match. His return provides a major boost to Morocco’s defensive capabilities and attacking options. Hakimi is known for his pace, skill, and ability to contribute both defensively and in the final third, making him a versatile asset for any team.
Navigating Fan Expectations and Team Dynamics
However, Hakimi expressed his frustration at being unable to participate in the initial matches of the tournament. He also addressed the recent booing from Moroccan supporters during the draw against Mali, urging fans to show respect for opponents and maintain their support. He drew parallels to his experience at Paris Saint-Germain, where criticism eventually gave way to Champions League success with unwavering fan support.
Regragui acknowledged the pressure from fans eager for decisive victories but stressed the importance of a balanced approach. He highlighted the contributions of players who stepped up in Hakimi’s absence, demonstrating the team’s depth and resilience. Maintaining team morale and integrating Hakimi back into the starting lineup will be key challenges for the coaching staff.
The Moroccan team’s performance so far in the tournament has been solid, but not without its challenges. The draw against Mali exposed vulnerabilities, and the team will need to refine its strategy as the competition intensifies. The presence of football stars like Hakimi is expected to galvanize the team and inspire confidence.
Zambia, meanwhile, faces an uphill battle. They need a win against Morocco to have any chance of progressing to the knockout stages. Their performance in the group stage has been inconsistent, and they will need to significantly improve their attacking output and defensive solidity to overcome the tournament hosts. The AFCON schedule is demanding, and Zambia will need to manage player fatigue and maintain focus.
Looking ahead, the outcome of Monday’s match will determine Morocco’s path through the knockout stages. While Hakimi’s return is a positive development, his fitness level and integration into the team will be closely monitored. The team’s ability to handle the pressure of expectations and maintain a cohesive unit will be crucial factors in their quest for the African championship. The next few days will reveal whether Morocco can capitalize on this momentum and make a deep run in the tournament.
