Achraf Hakimi has once again reminded the football world why he is considered among the best full-backs of his generation. Following a sensational performance against Niger, the Moroccan captain has received widespread praise from international media, with newspapers and broadcasters across Europe highlighting his decisive contribution to Morocco's emphatic 5-1 victory in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
At the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca on Friday, November 13, the Paris Saint-Germain star delivered a performance worthy of the occasion, scoring twice and providing an assist to inspire the Atlas Lions.
His influence went far beyond the final scoreline. With his attacking movement, technical quality and leadership, Hakimi demonstrated once again that he is capable of changing the course of a match.
And the international reaction has been equally impressive.
French Media Celebrate Hakimi's Decisive Performance
In France, leading sports newspaper L'Équipe highlighted Hakimi's importance in Morocco's victory, describing the win as being secured notably through the defender's brace and praising his excellent current form.
The publication also emphasised his ability to demonstrate his qualities in front of goal, underlining how the Moroccan has become much more than a traditional defender.
French international broadcaster RFI also celebrated his contribution, describing his two goals as spectacular strikes.
The outlet highlighted how Hakimi's second goal helped Morocco regain control after Niger had briefly threatened to make the contest more complicated.
His performance was another reminder of the attacking threat he brings whenever he represents his country.
Spain Delivers a Special Tribute: “There Is No One Like Achraf”
Spanish media were equally impressed by the Moroccan captain.
AS published a particularly striking headline: *“There Is No One Like Achraf.”*
The newspaper praised the PSG defender's exceptional qualities, describing him as the best full-back in the world and highlighting his growing influence on the international stage.
Meanwhile, Marca focused on the attacking contributions of Morocco's key performers, publishing the headline: *“Brahim, Zabiri and Hakimi Enjoy Themselves with Morocco.”*
The Spanish publication highlighted Brahim Díaz's assist, Yassir Zabiri's contribution and Hakimi's decisive involvement in the five-goal performance.
Another Spanish outlet, ABC, was particularly impressed by the captain's second goal. It highlighted his powerful free-kick from approximately 35 metres, describing the strike as another demonstration of his remarkable shooting ability.
The reaction reflects the growing recognition of Hakimi's influence beyond defensive responsibilities. His speed, attacking intelligence and ability to deliver decisive moments have made him one of the most complete players in his position.
Portugal Praises a Monumental Performance
The admiration extended beyond France and Spain.
Portuguese football outlet Bola na Rede described Hakimi's display as a monumental performance, highlighting his central role in Morocco's victory and their continued dominance of Group A.
For the Moroccan international, receiving recognition from multiple football markets reflects the reputation he has built through his performances at both club and international level.
His latest display was not simply another impressive appearance. It was a statement of his importance to the Atlas Lions.
Hakimi's Numbers Tell an Extraordinary Story
Beyond the headlines and praise, Hakimi's recent statistics provide further evidence of his remarkable influence.
Against Niger, the Moroccan captain recorded his 13th and 14th international goals, adding another milestone to his national-team career.
According to the supplied figures, he has now been directly involved in 13 goals across his last 18 starts for Morocco, registering four goals and nine assists.
His recent club and international performances have been equally impressive. Across his last five appearances, he has contributed to eight goals, with five goals and three assists.
These numbers underline the extraordinary attacking dimension of a player whose primary position remains in defence.
Closing in on Noureddine Naybet's Historic Record
The match against Niger also marked another important milestone in Hakimi's international journey.
The PSG defender made his 104th appearance for Morocco, bringing him closer to the national team's all-time appearance record.
That distinction currently belongs to Moroccan legend Noureddine Naybet, who earned 115 caps for the Atlas Lions.
With only 11 appearances separating them, Hakimi is increasingly approaching one of the most prestigious individual records in Moroccan football history.
At just 27, the captain has plenty of opportunities to continue climbing the rankings and potentially establish a new benchmark for future generations.
International Recognition After a Remarkable Two Weeks
English media also joined the celebrations.
The BBC highlighted how Hakimi scored two outstanding goals while goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved a penalty, helping Morocco maintain their unbeaten qualifying campaign.
Meanwhile, beIN Sports focused on the defender's sensational recent form, pointing to an extraordinary sequence that included a hat-trick for PSG and a brace for Morocco within just 14 days.
The combination of club and international performances demonstrates how influential Hakimi has become.
Whether representing Paris Saint-Germain in European competition or leading Morocco on the international stage, he continues to deliver decisive contributions.
Another Major Test Awaits in Rabat
Hakimi's impressive performance has naturally increased expectations ahead of Morocco's next encounter against Niger.
The two nations will meet again on November 17 at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, with the Atlas Lions looking to secure another victory in the fourth round of AFCON 2027 qualifying.
Following his outstanding display in Casablanca, the Moroccan captain will once again be one of the players attracting the greatest attention.
For Mohamed Ouahbi, having a player capable of influencing matches in so many different ways represents an enormous advantage as Morocco continue preparing for the challenges ahead.
Achraf Hakimi Continues to Elevate Moroccan Football
From France to Spain, Portugal and England, the reaction has been remarkably consistent: Hakimi delivered a performance worthy of worldwide recognition.
His two goals, assist and leadership against Niger further strengthened his reputation as one of the most influential players in international football.
But perhaps the most impressive aspect of his journey is that his achievements continue to grow while he remains an essential figure for his country.
There is no one like Achraf, as AS put it. And for Morocco, having a player of his quality leading the Atlas Lions is a privilege that continues to produce unforgettable nights.