World Cup 2026: Robertson hails Hakimi as world’s best fullback ahead of Scotland-Morocco clash

Scotland captain Andy Robertson has heaped praise on Morocco star Achraf Hakimi ahead of the sides’ crucial FIFA World Cup Group C encounter, describing the Paris Saint-Germain defender as the best fullback in world football.

The two nations are set to meet in a high-stakes showdown, with Scotland seeking to build on their opening victory over Haiti while Morocco aim to strengthen their bid for a place in the knockout stages after drawing with Brazil in their tournament opener.

Speaking to reporters before the match, Robertson singled out Hakimi as Morocco’s standout performer and one of the game’s most complete defenders.

“I think Achraf Hakimi is the best fullback in the world right now,” Robertson said.

The Scotland skipper highlighted the Moroccan captain’s remarkable ability to influence matches at both ends of the pitch, praising his attacking freedom and defensive reliability.

Hakimi has developed a reputation as one of the world’s elite fullbacks through his performances for both Morocco and Paris Saint-Germain, combining blistering pace, attacking creativity and defensive discipline. The 27-year-old played a key role in Morocco’s historic rise on the international stage and remains one of the first names on the team sheet.

Robertson’s comments underline the challenge awaiting Scotland when they face a Moroccan side widely regarded as one of the strongest teams in the tournament. Scotland head coach Steve Clarke has already acknowledged the quality of the North Africans, insisting his side will embrace their underdog status against a team he believes may be even stronger than the Morocco squad that reached the World Cup semi-finals in 2022.

Morocco’s threat is expected to come largely from Hakimi’s ability to drive forward from right-back, providing width, pace and attacking support while remaining solid defensively. His influence has been a major factor in the Atlas Lions’ success in recent years, earning admiration from opponents across the globe.

With qualification for the knockout stages potentially at stake, Scotland will be hoping Robertson can match the influence of his Moroccan counterpart in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the group stage.

The match will take place at Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts, with both teams aware that a positive result could significantly boost their chances of progressing to the next round.