By Amaechi Agbo
Morocco have been handed a major boost ahead of their final Africa Cup of Nations group clash against Zambia with PSG defender and Africa Footballer of the Year holder, Achraf Hakimi confirmed fit and ready to face Zambia on Monday.
Hakimi’s tournament had been stuck in limbo. Fresh from being crowned Africa’s best player at the CAF Awards, the Paris Saint-Germain star showed up in Rabat on crutches, raising serious doubts about his readiness for the finals.
Despite insisting he was match-fit before kickoff, the dynamic right-back sat out Morocco’s opening two games, a 2-0 win over Comoros and a 1-1 draw with Mali.
Coach Walid Regragui revealed on Sunday that Hakimi is finally available, singling out PSG for their role in fast-tracking the defender’s recovery and releasing him early to work with Morocco’s medical team.
“I want to thank Paris St Germain. If Hakimi is back with us today, it’s thanks to them,” Regragui said.
“There’s not a single club in the world that would release a player 15 days before the start of the Africa Cup of Nations.”
Hakimi’s return comes at a crucial moment. Morocco must beat Zambia to seal top spot in Group B as they continue their quest for a first AFCON title since 1976.
With their captain and talisman finally ready, the Atlas Lions look primed to roar when it matters most.
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