Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has called on the Atlas Lions to defend as a unit if they are to overcome Brazil in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Saturday, Trybal News reports.
The North Africans face a daunting challenge against the five-time world champions in a highly anticipated Group C encounter, with Hakimi expected to play a key role in Morocco’s backline against a star-studded Brazilian attack led by Vinicius Junior.
Speaking during Friday’s pre-match press conference, the Paris Saint-Germain defender acknowledged Brazil’s attacking quality but expressed confidence in Morocco’s preparations ahead of the showdown.
I think everyone knows the Brazilian national team, we know Vinicius’ qualities. I’ve already played against him many times, and he’s a great player. To defend against Vinicius and the other Brazilian players, who are all top-level, you have to defend as a team, with clear ideas,” Hakimi said.
I believe that we have trained and prepared for this kind of match. I think the team is ready. Personally, I feel ready, and I have the confidence needed to play a great match and deliver a great performance.”
The 27-year-old stressed that Morocco must rely on collective discipline rather than individual battles to contain Brazil’s dangerous frontline.
While respecting the quality of their opponents, Hakimi insisted Morocco possesses enough talent to compete with any team on the world stage.
We know the opponent we are facing tomorrow, we know their quality and the players they have. But we also have quality. People call us the ‘Brazil of Africa’ and we have players with great abilities.”
Hakimi also spared a thought for teammates Nayef Aguerd and Abde Ezzalzouli, who will miss the tournament through injury.
We will do our best on the pitch for Ezzalzouli and Aguerd, who unfortunately missed the opportunity to be here with us at the World Cup.”
The defender reserved special praise for Morocco’s passionate supporters, who have travelled in large numbers to back the team in the United States.
I have no doubt about the support of the Moroccan fans. They have sacrificed a lot for the national team and I am sure they will be there tomorrow to support us in the stadium.”
We feel the power of their support. It gives us extra motivation on the pitch to give everything we have. We are proud of you, just as you are proud of us.”
Morocco enter the tournament looking to build on their growing reputation as one of Africa’s leading football nations, and Hakimi believes the Atlas Lions are ready to make another statement when they face Brazil in one of the standout fixtures of the opening round.
The Group C clash is scheduled to kick off at 22:00 GMT on Saturday.
