2026 World Cup: Achraf Hakimi sends Morocco into turmoil after elimination!

09.07.26 FT World Cup

France

2

:

Morocco

0

Expected to be one of Morocco's key players against Les Bleus, Achraf Hakimi completely missed his mark and is now facing fierce criticism following the Atlas Lions' elimination.

The disappointment is immense for Morocco. Defeated convincingly by France (2-0) in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup, the Atlas Lions were never able to trouble the World Cup runners-up. Indeed, several key players failed to deliver, starting with Achraf Hakimi, who was widely anticipated to lead this squad.

See also: 2026 World Cup: nine qualifiers, one quarter-finalist, Africa's record

The Moroccan captain struggled defensively and contributed almost nothing down his flank. However, it is also his post-match attitude that has sparked debate. Some supporters reproach him for smiling with his PSG teammates despite the elimination. This image has gone down badly in Morocco, where much more was expected from their captain in such a crucial encounter.

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

Editor

Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

Related teams and leagues

France

Morocco

World Cup