Moroccan right-back Achraf Hakimi has been confirmed in Morocco’s squad for the quarter-final clash of the FIFA World Cup, played on the afternoon of Wednesday, July 9, 2026, at Gillette Stadium, in Foxborough, in the United States. The player’s presence reinforces the Moroccan defense in one of the most critical moments of the competition.
The full-back who attracts attention in the knockout stage
Hakimi arrives at the duel against France as a fundamental piece in Morocco’s defensive strategy. With an established experience in European football, the right-back is one of the main highlights of the Moroccan team and is among the athletes with the best technical evaluation in the squad. His experience in international competitions and his ability to contribute both in defense and attack represent a difference for coach Mohamed Ouahbi’s team.
Hakimi’s confirmation in the lineup takes place in a scenario where the margins for error are minimal. In the quarterfinals, any detail can decide who advances to the next phase. The player is part of the 4-2-3-1 formation, occupying the right defender position, a strategic role to contain the French offensive momentum.
France arrives as favoritism
France, with its squad full of international names, enters the field as favorites in the clash. Coach Didier Deschamps chose a balanced formation, with Kylian Mbappé as the main offensive weapon. The French team occupies third place in the FIFA rankings and has elite players in world football.
The Moroccan defense, where Hakimi is positioned, will have the mission of containing the French attack and taking advantage of counterattack opportunities. Referee Facundo Raul Tello Figueroa’s statistics indicate an average of 5.38 cards per game, which suggests a match that could be contested and tense.
Match details
- Date and time: July 9, 2026, 5pm
- Location: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, USA
- Arbitrator: Facundo Raul Tello Figueroa
- Morocco lineup (4-2-3-1): Bono; Hakimi, Diop, Mazraoui, Salah-Eddine; Bouaddi, El Aynaoui; Talbi, Ounahi, Khannouss; Diaz
- France lineup (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Koundé, Upamecano, Saliba, Digne; Koné, Rabiot; Dembélé, Olise, Doué; Mbappé
The history between the teams
France holds the record for world titles with four wins, while Morocco has two trophies. The direct confrontation between the teams carries historical weight and represents an opportunity for the Moroccans to prove their strength against a traditional opponent. Hakimi, as an experienced member of the team, bears the responsibility of maintaining the defensive solidity that allowed Morocco to reach this stage.
Odds and expectations
Bookmakers offer odds that reflect French favoritism. Betano Brasil offers odds of 1.67 for France to win, 4.00 for a draw and 5.70 for Morocco to win. Superbet Brasil offers similar numbers: 1.62 for France, 3.90 for a draw and 5.85 for Morocco. The numbers show that a Moroccan advance would be a surprise, but technically viable.
Hakimi’s impact on the team
Hakimi’s confirmed presence reinforces coach Mohamed Ouahbi’s confidence in the defensive structure. In addition to his technical qualities, Hakimi is known for his versatility and ability to adapt to different tactical systems. His experience in competitive European leagues places him in a silent leadership position in the Moroccan squad.
The right-back also represents a symbol of contemporary Moroccan football: players who can compete at the highest European level and return to defend their national teams with the same commitment. His confirmation in the lineup sends a clear message about the coach’s priorities for this knockout clash.
What to expect from the game
With Hakimi confirmed on Morocco’s right flank, the Moroccan defense is set up to offer resistance to the French attack. The duel promises to be balanced in defense, with the Moroccan full-back having the responsibility to contain extremes and support the construction of the defensive game. Mbappé, as the French team’s left winger, will be Hakimi’s main opponent during the 90 minutes.
Wednesday’s match will mark the meeting between two visions of football: French experience and tradition against Moroccan solidity and determination. Hakimi will be a central player in this clash that will determine who advances to the World Cup semi-finals.
