JAKARTA - Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has called on home fans to stop booing the team at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).
"It's not normal for fans to boo. We need that 12th player," Hakimi said on Sunday, December 28, 2025, local time, before Morocco's final group match against Zambia on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, early morning WIB.
The Moroccan players were booed by the home fans in the first half and again at the end of the game after a disappointing 1-1 draw against Mali on Saturday, December 27, 2025 WIB.
"We need the fans. However, we must respect the opponent. They are not an easy opponent," said Hakimi.
Morocco, the highest-ranked African team at 11th in the FIFA rankings, are considered favourites for this 35th edition of the tournament after reaching the 2022 World Cup semi-finals.
Atlas Lions played all their group matches at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium with a capacity of almost 70,000 spectators in Rabat, the capital of Morocco, where they will also play the first knockout match if they finish on top of the group.
"We know the fans want us to always win. Since the World Cup, there is a new Morocco, but we must not forget to remain humble."
"Hosting the Africa Cup of Nations at home helps us, but it doesn't make things easier."
"We need their support. Regarding the criticism of the coach, he has done a great job. He was with the team at the World Cup. He has changed the mentality, even my mentality," said the Paris Saint-Germain player.
Morocco lead Group A with four points from two games, ahead of Mali and Zambia with two points, while Comoros have one point before their final group match against Mali, also on Tuesday.
The top two teams from each group will qualify, along with the best third-placed team.
Hakimi referred to his experience with his club, PSG, where players were also booed before the team won the Champions League in May 2025.
"People told us that we were not a great team. In the end, we are European champions. So that's it," said Hakimi.
Morocco coach Walid Regragui said Hakimi would make his first appearance at the tournament against Zambia, either as a starter or a substitute, after recovering from an ankle injury he suffered while playing for PSG on November 4, 2025.
"He is the best player in Africa," Regragui said of Hakimi.
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