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Hakimi, ready for his debut with Morocco, launches a passionate appeal to the supporters
The wait is finally coming to an end for football observers and the Moroccan public. As the competition is in full swing on national soil, a central figure is preparing to breathe new life into the Atlas Lions. Achraf Hakimi, a true pillar of the national team, is now ready to step onto the pitch for his debut in this 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Beyond the sporting challenge, it is a message of unity and national cohesion that the captain wishes to convey.
Achraf Hakimi calls for sacred unity in the face of whistles from the stands
The pressure inherent in hosting a major tournament at home, like this AFCON in Morocco, can sometimes create unexpected tensions. Following the 1-1 draw against Mali last Friday, whistles emanated from the stands at halftime and at the final whistle, marking a surprising break with the usual local fervor. Faced with this situation, the captain of Paris Saint-Germain and the national team issued heartfelt calls for calm and unconditional support.
For the right-back, the public must imperatively play its role as the “twelfth man” in a positive way. “It is not normal that the supporters whistle,” he declared firmly during the press conference preceding the crucial match against Zambia. He stresses that respect for the opponents is crucial, reminding that the rivals are not easy teams to handle. In a logic of collective performance, the synergy between players and the public is an essential lever to go for the title.
The strategic stakes of a home competition
Being the host country offers an undeniable logistical advantage, notably by playing in the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat with about 70,000 seats. However, it also imposes an obligation for immediate results. Morocco, ranked 11th worldwide and a favorite of this 35th edition after its historic run in 2022, must manage this status with lucidity.
The captain insists on the necessity to keep “feet on the ground.” While excitement is legitimate, it must not turn into destructive impatience. Hakimi recalls that since the World Cup, the face of the team has evolved, but humility remains the engine of success. The public’s contribution must be a catalyst for energy and not a source of paralyzing stress for the players on the field.
A resilience forged by high-level experience
The passionate appeal of the player resonates in his own professional journey. Having overcome criticism in the past, especially at club level before winning the Champions League with PSG last May, he knows that perseverance eventually pays off. “People told us we were not a great team. In the end, we are European champions,” he recalled to illustrate the importance of self-confidence and trust in the collective.
Walid Regragui, the national coach, confirmed that his captain would make his first appearance of the tournament against Zambia, either as a starter or during the game. Recovering from an ankle injury sustained in early November, his return is seen as a major asset to stabilize the group.
Analysis of Group A dynamics and outlook
Morocco’s points situation remains favorable despite emotional turbulence. With four points in two matches, the Atlas Lions lead their group. However, managing the next match against Zambia will be decisive for the competition’s continuation and to reassure observers.
Here is an overview of the strengths and current dynamics within Group A:
| Position 📊 | Team ⚽ | Points 📈 | Current dynamic |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Morocco | 4 | Leader but under popular pressure after the draw against Mali. Captain’s return. |
| 2 | Mali | 2 | Solid and difficult to handle, held Morocco to a draw. |
| 3 | Zambia | 2 | Direct opponent of Morocco for qualification, tenacious team. |
| 4 | Comoros | 1 | Outsider capable of surprises, fighting for survival against Mali. |
To maximize their chances of success and ease tensions, the players and technical staff rely on several key levers. This return to high-level football for Hakimi comes with a clear vision of the leadership needed to guide the group toward the summit.
* 🧠 Winner’s mentality: Drawing inspiration from recent club successes to instill a culture of winning.
* 🤝 Solidarity with the coach: Hakimi reiterated his unwavering support for Walid Regragui, praising his work on mindsets.
* 🛡️ Pressure management: Transforming public expectations into positive motivation rather than anxiety.
* 🏃 Physical condition: The right-back’s injury comeback must be managed smartly to avoid relapse.
* 📢 Unified communication: The call to fans aims to recreate the sacred unity essential for great achievements.
Achraf Hakimi’s return is not just a technical reinforcement; it signals that the competition is entering a crucial phase where every detail, including the atmosphere in the stands, will count toward the final victory.
Why didn’t Achraf Hakimi play the first matches of AFCON 2025?
The Moroccan captain was recovering from an ankle injury contracted with PSG on November 4 during a Champions League match. He was preserved by the medical staff to be fully operational for the rest of the tournament.
What is the main stake of the match against Zambia?
The stake is twofold: securing first place in Group A to get a more favorable draw in the knockout phase, and winning back the hearts of supporters after the mixed performance against Mali.
How does Walid Regragui manage supporter pressure?
The coach stays focused on his objectives and benefits from the full support of his leaders, including Hakimi. He continues to advocate a change of mentality, reminding that the 2022 World Cup run is the result of deep work that requires patience.
What are Morocco’s chances of winning this AFCON at home?
As the 11th ranked nation worldwide and semi-finalist of the last World Cup, Morocco is the big favorite. The home advantage is an asset provided a strong cohesion is maintained between the team and its public.
