The disappointment following Morocco’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup should not overshadow Achraf Hakimi’s journey with the Atlas Lions. That is the message shared by journalist Saïd Amdaa on the social media platform X, in response to criticism directed at the Moroccan full-back.
According to him, a few seconds captured after the defeat cannot summarize the commitment of a player who chose to represent Morocco as early as 2017, at a time when the national team had not yet achieved the level of recognition it enjoys today.
The journalist also recalled that Hakimi has always shown a strong attachment to the national team jersey, mentioning in particular his emotion at the prospect of missing the next Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to be hosted by Morocco, as well as his discussions with Paris Saint-Germain in order to represent the Moroccan national team at the Olympic Games.
While the frustration following the defeat to France is understandable, Saïd Amdaa believes it should not call into question the dedication of the Atlas Lions’ captain.
The journalist also referred to the recent comments made by Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who said that, in a few years, Achraf Hakimi would be regarded as « the best right-back in the world, » a status that many already believe he has earned through his performances for both Morocco and his club.
