World Cup 2026: “Our objective is to make football history” – Morocco star Achraf Hakimi

Achraf Hakimi has set out Morocco’s bold ambitions for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, declaring that the Atlas Lions are determined to “make football history” as they prepare for another major tournament following their breakthrough run in 2022.

With just weeks remaining before the World Cup kicks off and ahead of Paris Saint-Germain FC’s UEFA Champions League final, the Moroccan right back spoke openly about the national team’s growing confidence and long-term goals in an interview with Onze Mondial.

Hakimi Reflects on Morocco’s Rise

Hakimi, widely regarded as one of the best right-backs in world football, continues to play a central role in Morocco’s golden generation after winning major honours at club level and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The defender suggested that Morocco’s historic semi-final run at the 2022 World Cup was only the beginning of what the team can achieve on the global stage.

“We Can Go Even Further”

Speaking about the upcoming tournament, Hakimi expressed strong belief in Morocco’s ability to compete with the world’s best.

“A World Cup is coming this summer, and we’re going to give everything. The group is confident, and we’re preparing to have a great tournament, like we did in Qatar in 2022. Why not do even better than we did in Qatar and go as far as possible?” he said.

No Limits for the Atlas Lions

Hakimi stressed that Morocco should not place limits on its ambitions, insisting that the team’s ceiling will be determined only by their performances on the pitch.

“Our only limit depends on us. We are the ones who set our own limits. Through our performances on the pitch and what we’ve shown in major tournaments, Morocco has grown and competes with the biggest nations,” he added.

He also highlighted the impact of the emerging generation within the national team setup, describing a squad driven by hunger and ambition.

“We Want to Make Football History”

Hakimi delivered his clearest message about Morocco’s long-term vision, underlining the team’s determination heading into the World Cup.

“Our objective is clear: to make football history,” he stated.

Morocco, who became the first African and Arab nation to reach a World Cup semi-final in 2022, now enter the 2026 tournament with heightened expectations, a confident squad, and growing belief that their historic run may only just be the beginning.