Morocco dealt Achraf Hakimi blow ahead of AFCON 2027 qualifiers

Morocco will begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign without captain Achraf Hakimi after the Paris Saint-Germain defender was handed a two-match suspension by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

According to Moroccan outlet Almountakhab, Hakimi will miss the Atlas Lions’ opening qualifiers against Gabon and Lesotho after the CAF Disciplinary Committee punished him for incidents that occurred after the 2025 AFCON final against Senegal.

The suspension is a major setback for Morocco as they start their journey towards securing a place at the 2027 tournament, with Hakimi regarded as one of the team’s most influential players.

Saibari also misses opening game

Morocco will also be without midfielder Ismael Saibari for their opening qualifying fixture against Gabon.

However, Almountakhab reports that Saibari’s appeal was partially successful, with the CAF Appeals Committee reducing his suspension and allowing him to feature in the second match against Lesotho.

The midfielder’s availability for the second qualifier will provide a boost for coach Walid Regragui as Morocco look to begin their campaign strongly.

Captain’s absence creates tactical challenge

Hakimi’s suspension presents a difficult challenge for Morocco’s technical staff, with the defender playing a key role in the team’s tactical structure.

The PSG star has become a central figure for the Atlas Lions, combining defensive responsibility with attacking influence from the right flank while also carrying the responsibility of leading the national team as captain.

His absence could force Morocco to adjust their approach during the opening stages of the qualifying campaign.

Friendlies unaffected by suspension

The report adds that Hakimi’s ban applies only to official AFCON qualifying matches and will not prevent him from featuring in any international friendly matches scheduled during the upcoming FIFA international window.

Morocco, who continue to build on their growing status as one of Africa’s leading football nations, will hope to overcome the early setback as they begin their pursuit of another AFCON appearance.