Achraf Hakimi breaks African World Cup record as Morocco defender becomes continent’s appearance leader

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has etched his name into African football history after becoming the player with the most FIFA World Cup appearances from the continent.

The Paris Saint-Germain defender achieved the landmark during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, surpassing the previous African record of 11 appearances. Following Morocco’s impressive 3-0 victory over Canada in the Round of 16, Hakimi’s World Cup tally reached 15 matches, making him Africa’s most experienced player in the history of the tournament.

The 27-year-old’s record has been built across three World Cup campaigns, with three appearances at Russia 2018, seven during Morocco’s historic journey to the semi-finals at Qatar 2022, and five matches so far at the 2026 tournament.

Hakimi’s journey from World Cup debut to African record holder

Hakimi first appeared on football’s biggest stage during the 2018 World Cup in Russia, featuring in all three of Morocco’s group-stage matches.

Four years later, the right-back played a central role in Morocco’s historic campaign in Qatar, where the Atlas Lions became the first African team to reach the World Cup semi-finals.

His consistency continued at the 2026 tournament, where he has featured in every match as Morocco continues to make history on the global stage.

The Morocco captain’s influence has extended beyond his appearances, with his performances and leadership making him one of the most important figures in the country’s football history.

Morocco dominate Africa’s World Cup appearance records

Morocco’s dominance is reflected throughout the list of Africa’s most experienced World Cup players, with several Atlas Lions occupying the top positions.

After Hakimi, midfielder Azzedine Ounahi ranks second among African players with 12 World Cup appearances. The midfielder also produced a memorable contribution in Morocco’s 3-0 win over Canada in the Round of 16, scoring twice in the match.

Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou follows with 11 World Cup appearances, matching the record previously held by African football icons François Omam-Biyik of Cameroon and Ghana legend Asamoah Gyan.

Hakimi and Morocco chase more history against France

With Morocco preparing for a quarter-final meeting against France at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Hakimi, Ounahi and Bounou have another opportunity to extend their remarkable tournament records.

For Hakimi, the journey represents another milestone in a career that has placed him among Africa’s greatest footballers, as the Morocco captain continues to carry the hopes of the continent on football’s biggest stage.