AFCON 2025: We hope Achraf Hakimi will be ready for the first game – Morocco coach Walid Regragui

Morocco coach Walid Regragui says they are hoping Achraf Hakimi will be fit in time for their first game against Comoros in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on December 21.

The Paris Saint-Germain full-back is recovering from injury, but the technical team remains optimistic about his progress.

In an interview with RMC, Regragui noted that Hakimi has shown strong determination to return as soon as possible.

“Hakimi’s condition is good. He is doing everything required and has shown great commitment,” he said.

“He has not stopped working since his injury. He is a leader, and we hope he will be ready for the first game,” Regragui added.

Hakimi’s availability will be crucial for Morocco, given his influence on the right side of defence and his forward surges that proved vital during their memorable run to the semifinals at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Morocco start their AFCON campaign against Comoros, followed by group meetings with Mali and Zambia.

The tournament comes with added significance for the North Africans, who will host the competition on home soil in 2025 for the first time since 1988.

With their last continental triumph dating back to 1976, there is a growing belief that this generation could finally end the long drought.