Following Morocco’s 3-1 victory over Zambia in the third matchday of CHAN 2025, Tarik Sektioui, coach of the national local team, took the opportunity to praise Achraf Hakimi. The Moroccan international, recently crowned in the UEFA Super Cup against Tottenham (2-2, 4-3 on penalties), was lauded by the coach for his performances and his values, both on and off the pitch.
First of all, for Achraf, he fully and rightfully deserves the Ballon d’Or. I spent time with him during the Olympics; he is an exceptional player with incredible skills, but also great personal values, which clearly show on the pitch. Over the past four or five years, he has been remarkably consistent and maintained a very high level. He is a pride for us and for Moroccan football. For me, he truly deserves the Ballon d’Or.