Morocco star Achraf Hakimi reaches Champions League appearance milestone

Morocco international Achraf Hakimi has reached a significant milestone in the UEFA Champions League, breaking into the five African players with most appearances after playing against Bayer Munich.

Hakimi made his 76th appearance in Europe’s premier club competition, drawing level with Ghanaian legend Michael Essien and breaking into the top five African players with the most Champions League matches of all time.

It is a remarkable achievement for a player still firmly in his prime, underlining Hakimi’s consistency at the highest level since bursting onto the European scene. From his early days at Real Madrid to spells with Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan, and now PSG, the 27-year-old has been a regular presence in the latter stages of the competition.

Only a trio of African greats now stand ahead of him on the all-time list—icons whose legacies have defined the continent’s impact on European football. Mohamed Salah leads the rankings with 98 appearances, followed by Ivorian legend Didier Drogba on 92, and Cameroon’s iconic striker Samuel Eto’o with 78.

Hakimi’s rise into such esteemed company highlights not only his durability but also his importance to every side he has represented. Renowned for his blistering pace, attacking threat, and tactical intelligence, he has redefined the modern full-back role while consistently delivering on Europe’s biggest stage.

Still with several peak years ahead of him, Hakimi is well-positioned to climb even higher on the list. Given PSG’s continued presence in the Champions League and his guaranteed role in the starting lineup, surpassing Eto’o—and potentially even Drogba and Salah—appears well within reach.

Beyond the numbers, this milestone is symbolic of Hakimi’s growing legacy. As African players continue to shape the narrative of European football, his achievements serve as both inspiration and a reminder of the continent’s enduring influence on the global game.

On a night defined by high stakes and elite competition, Hakimi’s personal landmark adds another layer to an already glittering career—one that is steadily moving toward legendary status.