Mon Dec 29 18:10:00 UTC 2025: News Article:

Hakimi Pleads With Moroccan Fans to Stop Whistling Team at AFCON

RABAT, Morocco – Morocco’s star player Achraf Hakimi has publicly appealed to the nation’s supporters to cease whistling at the team during their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign. The plea comes after the Atlas Lions were met with jeers from home fans at halftime and full-time following a disappointing 1-1 draw against Mali on Friday.

“It’s not normal for the supporters to whistle,” Hakimi stated on Sunday, ahead of Morocco’s crucial Group A match against Zambia on Monday. “We need that 12th man.”

Despite being the highest-ranked African team (11th globally) and a favorite to win the tournament following their historic World Cup semi-final appearance in 2022, the pressure seems to be mounting on the home side. Morocco is hosting all its group matches at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, where they would also play their first knockout game should they finish top.

“We need the fans,” Hakimi emphasized, while also urging respect for their opponents. “We know the fans want us to win all the time. Since the World Cup, there’s a new Morocco, but we mustn’t forget to keep our feet on the ground. Having the AFCON at home helps us, but it doesn’t make things easier. We need them behind us.”

Hakimi also defended coach Walid Regragui, who has also faced criticism: “He was with the team at the World Cup. He has changed mentalities, even mine.”

Drawing on his experience at Paris Saint-Germain, where players were also whistled before ultimately winning the Champions League, Hakimi urged fans to remain supportive.

Morocco currently leads Group A with four points, followed by Mali and Zambia with two each. Coach Regragui confirmed that Hakimi will make his first appearance of the tournament against Zambia, either as a starter or a substitute, after recovering from an ankle injury. “He’s the best player in Africa,” Regragui said of Hakimi.

The Atlas Lions are aiming to secure a spot in the knockout stage, and Hakimi hopes the home crowd can provide the crucial support they need to advance.

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