Electric performance: Achraf Hakimi earns high praise after PSG triumph

 Hakimi has been singled out for praise by L’Equipe after helping Paris Saint-Germain take control of their Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool.

Hakimi’s influence highlighted in PSG victory

The Moroccan international played a central role as PSG secured a 2-0 win over Liverpool in the first leg of their quarter-final tie at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday night.

According to the French sports daily L’Equipe, Hakimi was instrumental in driving the Parisian side forward, as the defending champions took a significant step towards the semi-finals of the competition.

The newspaper placed particular emphasis on the contribution of PSG’s full-backs, noting their importance in shaping the team’s attacking play against the English side.

“Full-backs Hakimi and Mendes were key drivers of PSG’s attacking play on Wednesday against Liverpool in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final (2-0). These two continue to reinvent the rules of the position,” the French daily newspaper emphasizes in an article titled “Two all-around full-backs to guide PSG towards a new European adventure.”

A return to form at a crucial moment

L’Equipe suggested that Hakimi is rediscovering his best form at a decisive stage of the season, as PSG enter the final phase of their European campaign.

The report pointed to his movement and involvement throughout the match, highlighting how he influenced play both in wide areas and through central positions.

Commenting on his display, the publication drew comparisons with his performances in the previous year, particularly against English opposition.

“In his runs both inside and out, in his availability at the heart of the game, there was a clear connection to the player who had already bankrupted English clubs last year,” explains the article’s author.

The analysis reflects a broader view that Hakimi’s versatility and energy continue to make him a vital component of PSG’s system.

Full-backs central to Luis Enrique’s system

The newspaper also underlined the importance of full-backs within the tactical approach introduced by coach Luis Enrique.

It noted that the role played by Hakimi and Nuno Mendes has become a defining feature of the team’s style, regardless of future outcomes.

The pair’s ability to contribute in different ways has been consistently evident over an extended period.

“What Hakimi and Mendes have been producing very consistently, in different styles, for at least two years, puts them directly in the category of the best full-backs in the history of the capital club,” explains the French media outlet.

Their performances, the report suggests, reflect a broader evolution in the demands of the position, with both players offering attacking threat alongside positional flexibility.

Encouraging signs for PSG’s European ambitions

L’Equipe also pointed to the technical quality displayed by the two defenders, particularly in possession during the match against Liverpool.

According to the report, their contribution with the ball provided a positive indication of PSG’s overall approach.

“According to L’Equipe, the two full-backs, without ever having to defend, produced a performance with the ball at their feet that had ‘something profoundly encouraging in the idea we have of football in 2026’.”

The analysis highlights the extent to which PSG were able to control the game, limiting Liverpool’s impact while maintaining attacking pressure.

Advantage ahead of second leg

The result leaves PSG in a strong position heading into the return leg, scheduled for 15 April at Anfield.

Liverpool, having struggled in the first encounter, will need to overturn the deficit to keep their hopes alive in the competition.

If PSG progress, Hakimi and his team-mates will face the winner of the quarter-final between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich in the semi-finals.

For now, attention remains on the second leg, where PSG will look to build on their advantage and continue their pursuit of another European title.