Morocco suffer huge blow ahead of AFCON 2025

The hearts of Moroccan football fans are pounding with concern as they await an official update from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) regarding the injury sustained by their star defender, Achraf Hakimi, during the Champions League clash against Bayern Munich.

The Moroccan right-back was visibly emotional as he limped off the pitch toward the end of the first half, following a dangerous tackle from Bayern forward Luis Díaz. The Colombian, who had earlier scored twice for Bayern, launched into a reckless challenge from behind — one that immediately drew the attention of the VAR. After a review, Díaz was shown a straight red card, leaving Bayern a man down.

The incident cast a shadow over what had been an intense first half between two of Europe’s top teams. Hakimi’s injury left both PSG and Moroccan supporters deeply worried, particularly with the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) just around the corner.

🔴 How long will Achraf Hakimi be out?

Early reports suggest that Hakimi could be sidelined for three to five weeks, depending on the results of the medical scans scheduled in the coming days. This timeline puts his participation in AFCON 2025, set to begin in December, in serious doubt.

The 27-year-old had only recently returned to action after being rested for PSG’s Ligue 1 match against Lorient, in an effort to manage his workload. He made his comeback in the previous week’s game against Nice, looking sharp and composed — until this latest setback.

⚽ PSG and Morocco’s growing concern

For PSG manager Luis Enrique, Hakimi’s absence adds to an already growing list of challenges. The French champions also lost Ousmane Dembélé, who was forced off in the same match with a suspected hamstring issue. Replacing both players will be no easy task, as their pace and creativity are key to PSG’s attacking transitions.

Meanwhile, for Morocco, Hakimi’s potential absence from AFCON would be a massive blow. The Atlas Lions are among the tournament favorites, with Hakimi considered one of their most influential figures — both defensively and offensively.

Moroccan fans have flooded social media with messages of support, praying for a speedy recovery for their star. Many believe his presence could be the difference between glory and heartbreak when the continental tournament kicks off.

As the world awaits PSG’s official medical update, both club and country will be holding their breath — hoping that Hakimi’s injury is not as severe as feared, and that one of Africa’s brightest footballing talents will soon be back on the pitch where he belongs.