With the 2022 FIFA World Cup ongoing, a lot of buzz has been going around as football fans all around the world are watching their cherished teams play. The World Cup, held in Doha, saw the fall of some mighty teams for the upcoming semi-finals. The World Cup also saw some unexpected turns, as Morocco defeated Spain and qualified for the quarterfinals.
In the round of 16, Achraf Hakimi scored the game-winning goal in a penalty shootout against Spain to advance his nation to the quarterfinals.
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Who is Achraf Hakimi?
Achraf Hakimi Mouh was born on November 4, 1998. He is a professional football player who represents both Morocco and Ligue 1 side Paris Saint-Germain. His primary position is right-back. He is recognised as one of the top right-backs in football, known for his pace, runs, and goal-scoring prowess.
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Hakimi graduated from the youth academy of Real Madrid. In 2016, he joined Real Madrid Castilla, and in 2017, after spending a short time with the first team, he was promoted. He was signed to a two-year loan to Borussia Dortmund of the Bundesliga, where he won the DFL-Supercup in 2019. Hakimi joined Serie A team Inter Milan for a reported sum of €40 million following a fruitful loan with Dortmund.
Hakimi was described as a quick, vivacious, and strong right-sided attacking full-back or wing-back when he joined Borussia Dortmund. He is also commended for being tactically astute and on being capable of playing long accurate passes from defence. He is regarded by many football analysts as one of the top right backs and defenders in the world.
Hakimi was included in Morocco’s 26-man roster for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar on November 10, 2022.
Hakimi, along with his national team, will now play against France in the semi-finals on December 15.
