Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has paid tribute to King Mohammed VI, football federation president Fouzi Lekjaa and the Moroccan public following the national team’s run to the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on home soil.
Two days after the conclusion of the tournament, Hakimi shared a detailed message on social media reflecting on Morocco’s journey, the emotional toll of the competition and the pride he felt representing the country throughout the month-long event.
The Paris Saint-Germain defender, who led the Atlas Lions during the tournament, described the aftermath of the final as a period of reflection before choosing to address supporters and officials publicly.
“After very difficult days, trying to assimilate everything that happened, I needed to express myself from the heart,” Hakimi wrote.
He first acknowledged the role of King Mohammed VI in the staging of the competition, which was hosted across Morocco and widely praised for its organisation.
“First of all, I would like to thank His Majesty for the immense work accomplished so that this African Cup is, without a doubt, the best in history, and organized in our country. Thank you for the vision, the support and the constant love for football and for Morocco,” he said.
Hakimi also expressed his gratitude to Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), highlighting his ongoing backing of the national side.
“Thank you also to our President Lekjaa Fouzi, for his total commitment to this selection and for believing in us at every step of the way.”
The 26-year-old reserved special praise for Moroccan supporters, both inside the stadiums and abroad, crediting them with providing energy during the most demanding moments of the tournament.
“And how can we not thank the Moroccan people. Thank you for being present at every match, every minute, in every emotion. You were our twelfth man, our strength when the legs were heavy and the heart ached. We have felt your support in Morocco and in every corner of the world.”
Hakimi also turned his attention to the squad and coaching staff, underlining the collective effort behind Morocco’s campaign.
“I want to thank Walid Regragui and all his staff from the bottom of my heart, but especially my teammates. For the work, the commitment and the enormous sacrifice we have made together during this African Cup.
It is 35 days of living together, of constant effort, of discipline and unity. A group that has shown the world that Morocco is not just competing: Morocco inspires.”
He said the team’s progress reflected a broader national ambition.
“Today, this Moroccan team has become a strong, respected and admired team, in the image of a country that moves forward with confidence and shows the world that it is one of the great football nations.”
Hakimi concluded by looking ahead to the future.
“This path does not end here. What we have experienced is a solid foundation for the future. With this state of mind, this unity and this ambition, there is no limit to what this selection can accomplish.
The future is built on what we sow today. The future is bright. Morocco will continue to move forward with its head held high. Thanks for everything. Dima Maghri.”
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