Hakimi came under scrutiny after a video circulated on social media showing him smiling briefly while interacting with players following Morocco’s 2-0 quarter-final defeat to France. Some supporters interpreted the moment as a sign that the defender was unaffected by the elimination.
Zaki calls for perspective
Speaking during a recent media appearance, Zaki urged supporters to look beyond a single moment and recognise the commitment shown by Morocco’s players throughout the tournament.
“I watched the video. Sometimes you laugh when you are crying blood on the inside. That is why, instead of consoling Hakimi and the Moroccan national team, who gave their absolute all on the pitch and gifted us beautiful matches and memorable evenings, we shouldn’t be turning on them at a moment like this,” Zaki said.
‘The smile hid his disappointment’
The former Morocco coach explained that footballers are expected to show respect to opponents after matches, regardless of the pain of defeat.
“And then we focus on a specific moment and see Hakimi laughing. But how can I, for example, go and shake hands with the French players while frowning? The player is smiling, but deep down, he is harbouring immense anger,” he added.
Zaki stressed that outward expressions immediately after matches do not always reflect what players are feeling internally, particularly after the emotional disappointment of a World Cup exit.
Morocco’s campaign earns praise
Although Morocco’s tournament ended with defeat to France in the quarter-finals, Zaki believes the focus should remain on the team’s achievements rather than isolated post-match moments.
The Atlas Lions once again impressed on the world stage, producing another memorable FIFA World Cup campaign that reinforced their status as one of Africa’s leading football nations.
Zaki concluded by encouraging supporters to stand behind the players, praising the squad for their commitment and the pride they brought to Moroccan football despite falling short of a place in the semi-finals.
