Achraf Hakimi delighted after first career hat-trick in PSG’s 5-1 win over Le Havre

Achraf Hakimi has expressed his delight after scoring the first hat-trick of his professional career and providing two assists in Paris Saint-Germain’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Le Havre in Ligue 1 on Friday night.

The Moroccan defender delivered a sensational attacking performance at the Stade Océane, directly contributing to all five goals as the French champions recovered from an early setback to secure another league victory.

Hakimi set up Mika Godts for the equaliser before scoring twice in the first half and adding another after the break. His goals came in the 28th, 55th and 69th minutes, while he also provided the assist for Senny Mayulu’s strike.

Speaking after the match, the 27-year-old revealed that he had kept the match ball as a souvenir of his historic achievement.

“The ball after the hat trick? I got it back, it’s in the locker room. I hope my teammates are signing it,” Hakimi said.

The former Real Madrid and Inter Milan defender admitted that scoring three times in one match was particularly special given his position on the pitch.

“My hat trick? It’s incredible for a full-back. What position do I play? I trained as a full-back (laughs!).”

Hakimi also credited head coach Luis Enrique and his teammates for giving him the freedom and support to contribute regularly in attacking areas.

“The coach gives me a lot of freedom. My teammates have also helped me a lot to find space, to cover me when I’m attacking. I’m very happy, I feel comfortable. As I said, the coach gives me confidence and on the pitch, I feel great.”

The Moroccan international explained that his attacking responsibilities sometimes see him operate in positions normally occupied by centre-forwards.

“My third goal? Sometimes I play as a number 9, finishing plays like a number nine. The coach gives me freedom; my teammates take my place when I go forward. It’s a connection between us. I’m very happy about that.”

Hakimi’s performance underlined his importance to Enrique’s tactical system, with his attacking instincts adding another dimension to PSG’s offensive play.

The victory extended PSG’s winning run in all competitions to nine matches, keeping them at the top of the Ligue 1 standings with 20 points from nine games.