Hakimi: Lifting the World Cup is My Dream; President Lekjaa Makes Great Efforts

Achraf Hakimi, captain of the Moroccan national football team, expressed his ultimate ambition: to win the World Cup with the "Lions." He believes the team has matured significantly in navigating various match situations, pointing to their comeback in the final group stage game as a crucial test of their collective spirit.

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We had never been behind in a World Cup match before; but what pleased me was the character and spirit the team showed afterward, because we now know how to handle such situations.

"We had never been behind in a World Cup match before," Hakimi shared during a podcast appearance. "But what pleased me was the character and spirit the team showed afterward, because we now know how to handle such situations." He acknowledged that the team's success in the 2022 World Cup has raised expectations, but stressed the importance of remaining humble and focusing on the next game.

Hakimi attributed the current success of Moroccan football to the significant efforts made by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation. He specifically commended President Fouzi Lekjaa for providing the necessary resources and conducive environment, which he stated has made the players' task easier. "President Fouzi Lekjaa has made great efforts to provide all conditions for Moroccan football, and this has made our mission easier to deliver our best," Hakimi said.

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President Fouzi Lekjaa has made great efforts to provide all conditions for Moroccan football, and this has made our mission easier to deliver our best.

Looking ahead to the match against the Netherlands, Hakimi acknowledged the opponent's quality but expressed confidence in Morocco's capabilities. He anticipates a difficult game decided by small details, emphasizing the need for complete focus. Hakimi also reflected on the personal sacrifices, such as being away from family, and the pressure of fan expectations that come with playing in a World Cup. He attributed the team's strong cohesion to a familial atmosphere, where players bond through dancing, laughing, and playing cards.

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For me, what Saibari is doing is not a surprise, because I have known his capabilities for years, and you will know in the future where he will reach.

He further lauded teammates like Munir El Kajoui, calling him a "hidden leader," Yassine Bounou the "calmest player," and Ismaïl Saibari, whose potential he has recognized for years. Hakimi also spoke emotionally about Sofiane Rahimi's journey and sacrifice, noting that the team felt his tears when he scored his first World Cup goal. Hakimi emphasized that talent alone is insufficient, highlighting mentality, discipline, and attention to detail as key differentiators, drawing a parallel with Mohamed Salah's dedication.

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I think we are capable.