Morocco are set to receive a significant boost ahead of their final Group A fixture at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, with Achraf Hakimi expected to feature against Zambia on Monday.
The Paris Saint-Germain defender is yet to make an appearance at the tournament after recovering from an ankle injury sustained in November, but head coach Walid Regragui confirmed on Sunday that the right-back is ready to return.
Speaking in Rabat, Regragui praised Hakimi’s recovery and confirmed his involvement, saying: “What he has done to come back is extraordinary. What I can say is that Achraf will play tomorrow. Whether he starts or not, it will be his first match at the AFCON.”
Hakimi was an unused substitute in Morocco’s opening two matches, as the hosts recorded a win over Comoros before settling for a draw against Mali. Despite his absence, Regragui stressed the defender’s importance to the team.
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“I think people don’t realise what Achraf brings to our team,” the coach added.
Morocco currently top of Group A with four points and require only a draw against Zambia to secure qualification for the knockout stage.
Hakimi, meanwhile, admitted his frustration at missing the opening games and addressed the reaction of the home supporters, urging unity as the tournament progresses.
“It is not normal for them to boo us,” he said. “We want to have the supporters behind us. If the fans are behind us, we can be champions of Africa together.”
The 26-year-old also expressed his delight at seeing Paris Saint-Germain teammate Kylian Mbappé in attendance, adding: “It is really nice to see my friend here in my country.”
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