Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi urged the host nation’s supporters to stop whistling the team at the Africa Cup of Nations after the Atlas Lions faced whistles from home fans at half-time and full-time following
their disappointing 1-1 draw against Mali on Friday.
Morocco leads Group A with four points from two games, ahead of Mali and Zambia on two points, with Comoros on one point before its final group game against Mali on Monday.
“It’s not normal for the supporters to whistle. We need that 12th man,” Hakimi said.
“We need the fans. But we have to respect our rivals. They’re not easy opponents,” the AFCON Player of the year added.
Morocco, ranked 11th in the world and the highest-ranked African team, is considered the favourite for the 35th edition of the tournament after reaching the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup. The Atlas Lions are playing all their group games at the nearly 70,000-capacity Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, the capital, where they will also play their first knockout game if they top their group.
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“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. Hosting AFCON helps us, but it doesn’t make things easier. We need them behind us. As for the criticism of the coach, he’s done a great job. He was with the team at the World Cup. He has changed mentalities, even mine.”
The top two teams from each group, along with the best third-place finishers, progress to the next stage.
Hakimi referred to his experience with his club Paris Saint-Germain, where players were also whistled before the team went on to win the Champions League in May.
“People told us we weren’t a great team. In the end, we’re European champions. So there you have it,” Hakimi said.
Morocco coach Walid Regragui confirmed that Hakimi will make his first appearance of the tournament against Zambia after recovering from an ankle injury, either as a starter or a substitute.
