Achraf Hakimi produced a decisive performance on his return to the Morocco national team, scoring twice as the Atlas Lions defeated Niger 5-1 at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca on 13 November 2026.
Morocco started with intent and took an early lead through Yassir Zabiri in the fourth minute. Hakimi then added his name to the scoresheet in the 27th minute before scoring again just before half-time, giving Mohamed Ouahbi’s side control of the contest. Niger briefly reduced the deficit through Mohamed Abdouramane, but Morocco responded after the break.
Hakimi gives Morocco another attacking weapon
The Paris Saint-Germain defender’s two goals highlighted his ability to influence matches beyond his usual defensive duties. His forward movement, timing and quality in the final third created another problem for Niger’s defence and gave Morocco an additional route to goal.
Youssef En-Nesyri extended the advantage in the 77th minute, with Hakimi providing the assist, before substitute Ayoub Oufkir completed the 5-1 scoreline in the 90th minute. The result gave Morocco a convincing performance in front of the Casablanca crowd and kept the team’s qualifying campaign on a positive path.
Focus shifts to the return fixture
The teams are due to meet again on Tuesday, 17 November, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Morocco will look to carry the confidence from this display into the next round, while the coaching staff can assess both established starters and emerging options.
For more team news, squad updates and match coverage, visit the Lions12 Atlas Lions hub and our Matches Centre.