Morocco’s hopes for a strong showing at the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) received a boost with the news that star defender Achraf Hakimi is fit to play. However, head coach Walid Regragui indicated on Saturday that a start in the tournament’s opening match against Comoros on Sunday is not guaranteed, prioritizing managing the player’s recovery from a recent ankle injury. The AFCON tournament, hosted by Morocco, is slated to run through January 18th.
Achraf Hakimi’s Fitness Key for Morocco’s AFCON Campaign
The potential return of Achraf Hakimi is a significant development for the Moroccan national team, considered one of the favorites to win the prestigious African championship. Hakimi, crowned African Player of the Year, sustained a severe left ankle sprain playing for Paris Saint-Germain in a Champions League match against Bayern Munich on November 4th, raising concerns about his availability for the tournament. His absence would have been a major blow to Morocco’s defensive capabilities and overall squad strength.
Regragui addressed reporters in Rabat, acknowledging the progress Hakimi has made. He stated that the player has worked tirelessly with medical staff, exceeding expectations in his rehabilitation process. The length of time Hakimi has been sidelined, however, still necessitates a cautious approach.
Injury Details and Recovery
Details surrounding the initial injury indicated significant ligament damage. The recovery protocol has been intensive, focusing on regaining strength and flexibility in the ankle. Hakimi himself confirmed on Saturday that he is feeling well and following the prescribed program.
“He has made sacrifices over the last four or five weeks that nobody else could have made and has set an example to the other players and the staff,” Regragui added, emphasizing Hakimi’s commitment to being available for the tournament. This dedication is particularly noteworthy given Hakimi’s high profile and the pressure associated with representing the host nation.
Morocco faces a challenging Group A alongside Mali and Zambia. Success in these matches, and ultimately throughout the tournament, will likely depend on the form of key players like Hakimi. A slow start to the tournament could put undue pressure on the team to perform in later stages, potentially impacting their chances of advancing.
The decision regarding Hakimi’s inclusion in the starting eleven represents a calculated risk for Regragui. While having his star player on the field would undoubtedly bolster the team’s chances, rushing his return could risk re-injury and jeopardize his participation in future matches. AFCON organizers are anticipating strong attendance and viewership throughout the competition.
Morocco last won the Africa Cup of Nations in 1976 and has been steadily building towards another title in recent years. Their semi-final appearance in the 2022 FIFA World Cup demonstrated their growing competitiveness on the international stage. The home advantage at the 2026 tournament is expected to provide further impetus to their efforts.
The upcoming days will be crucial in determining Hakimi’s level of match fitness. Regragui’s final decision regarding the lineup for the opening match is expected shortly before kickoff on Sunday. Observers will be closely monitoring Hakimi’s performance, if he does play, and assessing any limitations in his movement or stamina. Further updates on his condition and the team’s overall preparation will likely be released by the Moroccan Football Federation.
Beyond Hakimi’s status, other considerations for Morocco include tactical flexibility and maintaining a cohesive team dynamic. The secondary keyword of “football” will be essential for them. The successful navigation of the group stage, and the subsequent knockout rounds, presents a formidable challenge, and sustained performance throughout January will be vital for achieving their goals. The importance of a strong defensive line, as well as effective attacking play, cannot be overstated as the tournament progresses.
Looking ahead, the primary uncertainty surrounds the long-term impact of Hakimi’s injury. While currently declared fit, his ability to withstand the physical demands of a month-long tournament remains to be seen. The next key milestone will be observing his contribution in the initial matches and evaluating his recovery between games. Senegal is also another team to watch during the Africa Cup of Nations.
