The CAN is off to a good start for Achraf Hakimi.
Engaged with Morocco to compete in the African Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast (January 13 - February 11), the Paris Saint-Germain full-back scored his first goal of the competition this Sunday afternoon against the Republic Democratic Republic of Congo.
Started by Walid Regragui on the right of the Moroccan rearguard, the Atlas Lions defender made a huge start to the match.
Just technically to place a very good cross on the head of Youssef En-Nesyri, pushed back by the Congolese goalkeeper, Hakimi stood out perfectly on the following corner to place a right-footed volley into the opposing net (6th, 1 -0).
🇲🇦🇨🇩 Hakimi the essential!
🤩 1-0 for Morocco on this magnificent recovery from the Parisian!
🏆🌍 #CAN2023 #MARRDC #beINCAN2023 pic.twitter.com/YVo4rbnv69
— beIN SPORTS (@beinsports_FR) January 21, 2024
A decisive passer against Tanzania during Morocco's successful entry into the competition (3-0) on January 17, the man with 65 caps scored his ninth goal in the red and green jersey.
He had not scored since March 29, 2022, already against the DRC, in a play-off match for the World Cup.
In the event of success against the Leopards, Hakimi and his team would already be qualified for the round of 16 of a CAN in which they are favorites, more than a year after their surprise semi-final at the Qatari World Cup.