Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi among World Cup’s most creative players as Messi leads rankings

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has underlined his influence at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by finishing joint second for chances created, trailing only Argentina captain Lionel Messi after the semi-finals.

According to statistics released by Squawka, Hakimi has created 17 scoring opportunities during the tournament, matching Belgium’s Leandro Trossard and placing ahead of African rival Mohamed Salah and France captain Kylian Mbappe.

Messi remains tournament’s leading creator

Messi extended his lead at the top of the rankings after helping Argentina secure a 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup semi-finals.

The Argentina captain has created 25 chances during the tournament, eight more than his nearest challengers.

Hakimi’s total of 17 chances highlights the Morocco defender’s importance in attack, having played a key role in the Atlas Lions’ run to the quarter-finals.

Hakimi finishes above Salah and Mbappe

Egypt captain Mohamed Salah is fourth in the standings with 16 chances created, level with France duo Ousmane Dembele and Kylian Mbappe.

England midfielder Declan Rice follows with 15 chances, while France’s Michael Olise is eighth on 14.

France youngster Désiré Doué and Mexico’s Roberto Alvarado complete the top 10 with 13 chances each.

Top chance creators at the 2026 World Cup

Hakimi’s place near the top of the standings further highlights the contribution of African players at the tournament, with the Morocco captain emerging as one of the competition’s most influential creators alongside Salah as the World Cup approaches its conclusion.