Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi asks fans to stop whistling the team at AFCON 2025

Morocco are the hosts of the 35th AFCON tournament and are widely considered the top contenders for the title. However, they were held to a disappointing draw against Mali in their second group-stage match. During that game, sections of the home crowd voiced their frustration by whistling at half-time and again after the final whistle.

Despite the draw, Morocco remain favourites to top their group ahead of the clash with Zambia. Still, Hakimi expressed his disappointment with the reaction from the stands. He said: “It’s not normal for the supporters to whistle. We need that 12th man. We need the fans. But we also have to respect our rivals. They are not easy opponents.

“We know the fans want us to win all the time. Since the World Cup, there’s a new Morocco, but we must keep our feet on the ground. Playing the AFCON at home helps us, but it doesn’t make things easier. We need them behind us. And as for the criticism of the coach, he’s done a great job. He was with the team at the World Cup and has changed mentalities, even mine.”

Morocco have played all their matches at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, the capital of the country. If they finish top of the group and qualify for the knockout stage, they will continue to play at the 70,000-capacity stadium. For that reason, the captain is keen for fans to turn home advantage into a decisive factor.

Hakimi missed Morocco’s first two matches due to an injury picked up in November while playing for PSG. Given his importance, head coach Walid Regragui is expected to manage his minutes carefully. Hakimi could start on the bench, with Mazraoui likely to continue at right-back.

The final Group A matches at AFCON 2025 will kick off at 2:00 AM on 30 December (GMT+7). If Morocco beat Zambia, they will secure top spot in the group. Otherwise, they will have to wait for the result of the simultaneous match between Mali and Comoros.