Hakimi Urges Support for Moroccan Team Amidst Whistles from Home Fans

omidbasir- RABAT, Morocco – Achraf Hakimi, the captain of the Moroccan national team, has made a heartfelt appeal for the local supporters to refrain from whistling at the team during the Africa Cup of Nations.

“It’s not normal for the supporters to whistle,” Hakimi stated on Sunday, ahead of Morocco’s final group match against Zambia scheduled for Monday. “We need that 12th man.”

The players faced whistles from the home crowd during both half-time and full-time following a disappointing 1-1 draw against Mali last Friday.

“We need the fans, but we must also respect our rivals. They are formidable opponents,” he added.

Ranked as the highest African team at No. 11, Morocco is viewed as a strong contender for this year’s tournament, particularly after their impressive run to the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup. The Atlas Lions will play all their group matches at the nearly 70,000-capacity Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, where they will also compete in their first knockout match if they top their group.

“We understand the fans want us to win every match. Since the World Cup, there’s a renewed spirit in Morocco, but we must remain grounded. Hosting the AFCON is an advantage, but it doesn’t ease the pressure. We need our supporters behind us. Regarding the coach’s criticism, he has done an exceptional job. He was with us at the World Cup and has transformed our mentalities, including my own,” Hakimi expressed.

Currently, Morocco leads Group A with four points from two matches, ahead of Mali and Zambia, both at two points, while Comoros trails with one point before their final group game against Mali.

The top two teams from each group, along with the best third-place finishers, will advance to the knockout stage.

Hakimi also reflected on his experiences at Paris Saint-Germain, where players faced similar whistling before ultimately winning the Champions League last May. “People told us we weren’t a great team, yet we emerged as European champions. There you have it,” he remarked.

Morocco’s coach, Walid Regragui, confirmed that Hakimi will make his tournament debut against Zambia, either as a starter or coming off the bench, after recovering from an ankle injury sustained while playing for PSG on November 4.

“He’s the best player in Africa,” Regragui praised Hakimi.