Achraf Hakimi has become the most-capped African player in World Cup history after completing his 13th match at the tournament during Morocco's campaign. The 25-year-old right back surpassed the previous record held by Cameroon legend Rigobert Song during a qualifying fixture. Hakimi achieved the feat while representing Morocco at the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, cementing his place among the continent's footballing greats.
Record-Breaking Achievement on the Pitch
Hakimi's 13th World Cup appearance came during a crucial qualifier that solidified Morocco's position in the tournament standings. The Paris Saint-Germain defender has been a constant presence for the Atlas Lions since his debut at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. His longevity at the highest level reflects both his individual quality and Morocco's sustained success in recent tournaments.
The milestone places Hakimi ahead of Song, who accumulated 12 appearances across four World Cups from 1982 to 2006. The Cameroonian defender held the record for nearly two decades before Hakimi's steady accumulation of caps eclipsed it. FIFA confirmed the record during their official match documentation following the fixture.
From Debut to Record Holder
Hakimi made his World Cup debut at Russia 2018 at just 19 years old, immediately establishing himself as one of Africa's brightest talents. He featured in all three of Morocco's matches at that tournament before returning for the 2022 edition in Qatar, where he helped guide the team to the semi-finals. His performances in Qatar attracted European giants, ultimately leading to his move to PSG.
The defender's consistency has been remarkable, missing very few matches through injury or suspension across four World Cup cycles. Coaches who have worked with him have praised his durability and professionalism, noting how he approaches every match with equal intensity regardless of the stakes.
What This Means for African Football
The record signals a shift in how African players approach international football's premier competition. Previous generations rarely managed to feature in so many World Cups, often due to their nations failing to qualify consistently. Hakimi's achievement reflects Morocco's investment in youth development and infrastructure over the past decade.
Football analysts tracking continental progress say the milestone will inspire younger players across Africa. Several nations, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon, are currently building squads with an eye on regular World Cup participation. The visibility of Hakimi's achievement could accelerate those programmes, experts suggest.
Looking Ahead to Future Tournaments
Morocco will look to extend their qualification streak when the next World Cup cycle begins. Hakimi, now 25, has several prime years ahead and could push the record well beyond 13 appearances if his nation continues qualifying. The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, offers expanded qualification slots for African nations.
Fans in Morocco and across Africa are already discussing whether Hakimi could become the first African player to appear in six World Cups. That milestone would require him to remain fit and in form through the 2034 tournament, when he would be 35. Football watchers say the record stands as both an individual triumph and a symbol of Africa's growing presence on the world stage.
Global Recognition and Club Form
PSG have benefited greatly from Hakimi's consistency, with the club recently extending his contract through 2029. His performances for the French champions have attracted interest from Premier League clubs, though officials at PSG have publicly stated he forms part of their long-term plans. The defender's market value has risen to approximately 80 million euros according to recent valuations.
Hakimi has spoken publicly about balancing club and international duties, describing representing Morocco as the greatest honour of his career. His social media following across Africa has grown substantially since the Qatar 2022 campaign, with millions of young fans citing him as their primary inspiration for pursuing football.
Morocco's national team coach is expected to give Hakimi regular rest during the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers to preserve his fitness for future World Cup campaigns. The next competitive fixtures are scheduled for March 2025, when several African nations will begin their qualification drives for the expanded 2026 tournament.
See Also
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Hakimi's achievement reflects Morocco's investment in youth development and infrastructure over the past decade.Football analysts tracking continental progress say the milestone will inspire younger players across Africa. The visibility of Hakimi's achievement could accelerate those programmes, experts suggest.Looking Ahead to Future TournamentsMorocco will look to extend their qualification streak when the next World Cup cycle begins.
