Achraf Hakimi and Morocco are gearing up for another unforgettable World Cup journey, and if their recent form is any indication, the world should be paying close attention. The Paris Saint-Germain star isn't just one of the top defenders on the planet—he's one of the most influential players, period. As a right back who can dominate both ends of the pitch, Hakimi has evolved into a true leader for club and country, blending experience with composure that sets him apart.
Hakimi anchors a golden generation for Morocco, a team that can go toe-to-toe with the best. Their tactical flexibility is a major weapon: they're comfortable playing patient, methodical football against most opponents, but can also drop into a low block when facing powerhouses. With a rock-solid defense, they stay compact and rely on devastating transitions to catch teams off guard. Hakimi's speed as one of Europe's fastest wingbacks means he can bomb forward and still sprint back to shut down attacks, making him a nightmare for opponents.
His passing and creativity from the back are top-notch. Last season, data from Soccerment showed Hakimi led all of Europe in one-twos opened per 90 minutes—he initiates attacks like few can from his position. One moment he's collecting the ball from a defender or goalkeeper, the next he's slicing through the back line to create a scoring chance. His link-up play with attackers is so sharp that tracking him becomes nearly impossible for opposing players.
Morocco's magic was on full display in 2022 when they knocked Spain out in the round of 16. They deployed a 4-1-4-1 low block, letting Spain hold over 70% possession without ever feeling threatened. Spain looked sluggish and out of ideas, managing just one shot on target in 90 minutes before Morocco sealed the win on penalties. The midfield grit of Sofyan Amrabat, combined with pressing from Azzedine Ounahi and Hakim Ziyech, made that result monumental. Hakimi was crucial, defending 1-v-1 and sparking counters when it mattered most.
Four years later, those principles are still the foundation, and Morocco has added firepower with Brahim Diaz—a hardworking, line-breaking winger who switched his allegiance from Spain to Morocco. Fresh off winning the Africa Cup, this team is a dark horse for the upcoming tournament, and Hakimi is the engine driving their dreams of another historic run.