Paris Saint-Germain secured a dramatic 5-4 victory over Bayern Munich in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final, but celebrations were tempered by a late injury to Achraf Hakimi that has raised concerns in both Paris and Morocco.
The match, played in front of a packed crowd at Parc des Princes in the French capital, saw the home side deliver what has been described as the highest-scoring victory in a semi-final in the competition’s history. The game was officiated by Swiss referee Sandro Scherer.
Late injury disrupts celebrations
Despite the significance of the result, attention quickly shifted to Hakimi’s condition after the defender went down in the 89th minute following a challenge involving Bayern midfielder Laimer. With all substitutions already used by head coach Luis Enrique, the Moroccan international was forced to continue playing while visibly struggling.
Hakimi remained on the pitch for the closing stages but was limited in his movement, operating in more advanced areas due to his inability to track back defensively or engage in physical duels. At full-time, he headed straight to the dressing room without joining his teammates’ celebrations, intensifying concerns over the severity of the issue.
Uncertainty over extent of injury
Initial medical assessments have indicated a severe muscle spasm, although reports from French outlet L’Equipe suggest a possible hamstring injury. If confirmed, the diagnosis could rule Hakimi out of the second leg, scheduled to take place next week.
The potential absence of the 27-year-old would represent a significant setback for PSG, given his influence on both defensive stability and attacking transitions.
Signs of physical strain emerge
Questions have also been raised about the player’s workload in the lead-up to the match. Since 19 April, Hakimi has started four consecutive matches, averaging one appearance every two and a half days. Analysts have suggested that this demanding schedule may have contributed to the injury.
PSG captain Marquinhos revealed that Hakimi had complained of discomfort during the match, specifically in his thigh muscle, and confirmed that the player would undergo further medical examinations.
Concerns had already surfaced earlier in the week when Hakimi was forced off during a domestic league fixture against Angers due to muscle discomfort, before the issue resurfaced against Bayern.
Key contributor faces race against time
Prior to his injury, Hakimi had once again demonstrated his attacking value by providing a crucial assist in the match. That contribution took his tally to seven assists in the current Champions League campaign, making him the leading assist provider ahead of Michael Ulissi, who has six.
His absence would therefore be keenly felt in the return leg at the Allianz Arena, where PSG will aim to secure a place in the final.
Club and country concerns grow
Beyond club football, the injury has also sparked anxiety within the Moroccan national team setup. Hakimi is a key figure for his country, and there are fears that a prolonged absence could affect his readiness for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Awaiting definitive diagnosis
For now, PSG and Morocco await the results of further medical tests, which will determine the extent of the injury and the timeline for recovery. With crucial fixtures approaching, Hakimi’s fitness has become a central concern for both club and country.
