Hakimi regrets the absence of Akord and Zalzouli and is betting on "fighting spirit" against Brazil.
Achraf Hakimi, the captain of the Moroccan national team, expressed his sadness over the absence of Nayef Aguerd and Abdessamad Ezzalzouli from the World Cup finals, confirming that the group was affected by their inability to participate in this global event.
Hakimi explained during the press conference preceding the Moroccan national team's match that he spoke at length with Nayef Aguerd, praising what he has contributed to the national team over the past years, whether in the Africa Cup of Nations or in various competitions where he defended the "Atlas Lions" jersey.
The captain of the Moroccan national team praised the stance taken by Nayef Aguerd when he admitted his lack of full readiness to participate in the tournament, considering that this reflects his professionalism and his concern for the team's interests above all else, expressing his gratitude to the player for his continuous support to the group despite his absence from the competition.
Hakimi confirmed that the absence of Aguerd and Ezzalzouli serves as an additional motivation for the other players to give their best during the tournament, adding that the team members will fight on the field to bring joy to Moroccan fans and honor their absent teammates by achieving positive results in the World Cup.
Hakimi stated that facing the Brazilian national team in the World Cup will be balanced between both sides, rejecting the notion that any team is superior to the other before the competition begins.
He explained that the World Cup finals put all teams on equal footing, noting that the quality of players available to the Brazilian national team is matched by significant potential within the Moroccan team, which promises a strong and open match with all possibilities.
The captain of the "Atlas Lions" added that the outcome of the match will be determined by small details on the field, emphasizing that offensive efficiency and taking advantage of available opportunities will be among the key factors for victory in this encounter.