Achraf Hakimi. Photo Credit: FRMF
Morocco head coach Walid Regragui confirmed on Sunday that captain Achraf Hakimi will return to action on Monday when the Atlas Lions face Zambia in the third group-stage match of the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025.
Hakimi Back After Ankle Injury
The Paris Saint-Germain right-back has been sidelined since early November after suffering a left ankle injury during PSG’s UEFA Champions League match against Bayern Munich on November 4. As a precaution, Hakimi missed Morocco’s first two matches of the tournament.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Walid Regragui confirmed that the 26-year-old defender is now fit and available for selection.
“Achraf will play against Zambia,” Regragui stated, while adding that the final decision on whether he starts the match or comes on as a substitute will be made on matchday.
A Major Boost for the Atlas Lions
Hakimi’s return represents a significant boost for Morocco as the team looks to secure qualification for the knockout stages. Beyond his defensive role, the PSG star is a key attacking outlet and one of the leaders of the squad.
Regragui also took the opportunity to thank Paris Saint-Germain and club president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi for their cooperation in releasing the player earlier than required.
Strong Coordination with PSG
“Nasser Al-Khelaïfi is a great leader, and we stayed in constant contact with PSG,” Regragui explained. “We are fortunate to work with one of the best sports doctors in the world, Christophe Baudot. The collaboration was excellent from start to finish.”
The Moroccan coach emphasized that PSG felt reassured by the medical process, given Baudot’s long-standing experience with the Parisian club.
Morocco will face Zambia on Monday with qualification scenarios still open, and Hakimi’s presence could prove decisive as the Atlas Lions aim to finish the group stage strongly.
Source: lequipe.fr
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