Achraf Hakimi has written his name into African football history after becoming the most capped African player in FIFA World Cup history, setting a new continental benchmark during Morocco’s campaign at the 2026 tournament.
The Paris Saint-Germain defender has now made 12 World Cup appearances, moving clear of former record holders Asamoah Gyan of Ghana and François Omam-Biyik of Cameroon, who both previously stood on 11 appearances.
The achievement highlights Hakimi’s remarkable consistency at the highest level of international football, as well as his enduring importance to Morocco’s national team across multiple World Cup cycles.
The 27-year-old full-back has featured at three consecutive tournaments, Russia 2018, Qatar 2022 and the ongoing 2026 World Cup, underlining both his longevity and his ability to remain a key figure in the Atlas Lions squad over nearly a decade.
Hakimi’s record is also a reflection of Morocco’s rise as a consistent force on the global stage.
In recent years, the North African nation has established itself as one of the continent’s most competitive teams at major tournaments, with Hakimi playing a central role in that progress.
Known for his pace, technical quality and attacking contribution from defence, Hakimi has developed into one of Africa’s most influential modern players.
His performances have regularly provided Morocco with width, creativity and defensive stability, making him a vital component of their tactical structure.
While individual milestones are often secondary to team success, Hakimi’s record emphasises his durability and professionalism at the top level of international football.
Maintaining such consistency across three World Cups is a rare achievement, particularly in a position as physically demanding as full-back.
The new record also places Hakimi among the most experienced players ever to represent an African nation at the World Cup, further cementing his reputation as one of the continent’s modern greats.
For Morocco, his continued presence offers both leadership and stability as they aim to build on their historic performances in recent tournaments.
His experience is expected to remain a crucial factor as the Atlas Lions pursue further success on football’s biggest stage.
Hakimi’s milestone is part of a broader story of African football progress at the World Cup, where players from the continent have increasingly made their mark on the global game. His record now sets a new standard for future generations.
With at least one more match remaining in the current tournament, Hakimi’s tally could yet increase further, extending a record that already stands as a testament to his consistency and longevity.
Regardless of how far Morocco progress in 2026, Hakimi’s place in African football history is now firmly secured.
