Achraf Hakimi strengthens African Ballon d’Or case with Morocco double

Achraf Hakimi produced a standout performance for Morocco as voting for the 2026 African Ballon d’Or continues, scoring twice in a 5-1 win over Niger in Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying.

The Paris Saint-Germain right-back had never previously scored two goals in a single match for his country. His first international brace helped Morocco secure a third consecutive victory in the qualifying campaign and provided a timely reminder of why he is seeking to retain his title.

Hakimi’s influence extended beyond his goals, with his role in Mohamed Ouahbi’s team attracting particular attention. Although he started as a conventional right-back, the Morocco captain was given the freedom to move inside, contribute to the build-up and occupy advanced central positions.

That tactical licence reflected the way Hakimi operates for Paris Saint-Germain under Luis Enrique. It also allowed him to make a major impact against Niger, with his opening goal providing a clear example of his attacking positioning.

In the 27th minute, Hakimi moved into the space created by Brahim Diaz near the edge of the penalty area before driving a powerful shot into the bottom corner. The finish was more typical of an attacking midfielder than a traditional full-back.

He added his second goal from a free-kick in first-half stoppage time at 45+3 minutes. Hakimi then went close to completing a hat-trick when the Niger goalkeeper narrowly tipped a corner on to the crossbar around the hour mark.

The 2 shirt eventually supplied the assist for Youssef En-Nesyri, giving him three direct contributions to Morocco’s goals on the night.

His overall performance was reflected in the statistics. Hakimi had five shots on target from five attempts, created two key chances and produced one major opportunity. He touched the ball 90 times and completed 59 of 64 passes, a success rate of 92%, including 37 passes in the opposition half.

He also completed all three of his attempted dribbles, won eight of his nine ground duels and recovered possession six times.

Niger are not considered the strongest opposition in Africa, but Hakimi’s display continued a run of excellent form. Fifteen days earlier, he had scored a hat-trick and provided two assists for Paris Saint-Germain in their 5-1 Ligue 1 victory over Le Havre.

The 2026 African Ballon d’Or will be awarded on 2 December. With voting under way, the reigning winner could hardly have produced a more effective showcase of his credentials as he attempts to remain at the summit of African football.