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Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has expressed confidence ahead of the Atlas Lions’ highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against Brazil, insisting that his team is ready to rise to the occasion and deliver a strong performance.
Speaking during Friday’s pre-match press conference, Hakimi acknowledged the quality of the Brazilian squad, particularly Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior, but stressed that Morocco has prepared well for the challenge.
“I think everyone knows the Brazilian national team. We know the quality of Vinicius, and I have faced him before. He is a very good player,” Hakimi said.
The Paris Saint-Germain full-back emphasized that stopping Brazil’s attacking threats will require a collective effort rather than an individual battle.
“To defend against Vinicius and the rest of Brazil’s top-level players, we need to defend as a team. We have worked on that and we are ready. Personally, I feel ready and confident to play a great match and deliver a good performance.”
Hakimi also highlighted Morocco’s own strengths and believes the squad has what it takes to compete with the world’s best teams.
“We know the opponent we are facing tomorrow, we know their quality and the players they have. But we also have quality. People call us the ‘Brazil of Africa’ and we have players with great abilities.”
Missed teammates
Hakimi also gave a word for his teammates Nayef Aguerd and Abde Ezzalzouli, who will miss the competiton due to injuries.
“We will do our best on the pitch for Ezzalzouli and Aguerd, who unfortunately missed the opportunity to be here with us at the World Cup.”
A message to the fans
The 27-year-old defender also delivered an emotional message to Moroccan supporters, praising the sacrifices they have made to follow the national team all the way to the USA.
“I have no doubt about the support of the Moroccan fans. They have sacrificed a lot for the national team and I am sure they will be there tomorrow to support us in the stadium.”
“We feel the power of their support. It gives us extra motivation on the pitch to give everything we have. We are proud of you, just as you are proud of us.”
Morocco will take on Brazil on Saturday night in one of the standout matches of the opening round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Hakimi and his teammates determined to continue the country’s recent rise on the global stage.
