French media praises Hakimi
Express TV: Mustapha Filali
Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi continues to impress with his performances for Paris Saint-Germain, playing a pivotal role in the emphatic 4-0 victory over Inter Miami in a match hosted at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, as part of the knockout stage of the Club World Cup.
Hakimi scored the fourth goal at the perfect moment, following up on a shot that ricocheted off the crossbar, confidently placing the ball in the net amid the chaos of the opponent’s defense. This goal not only crowned a comprehensive attacking display but also served as further proof of his scoring instinct in matches that demand decisive action.
French media was quick to commend him, with Le Parisien describing the goal as “a replica of a foosball goal,” praising his remarkable focus and quick thinking in exploiting opportunities within the penalty area.
Meanwhile, So Foot highlighted the player’s consistency this season, noting that his anticipated absence due to the Africa Cup of Nations is a genuine concern for the club’s management, which is racing against time to find a replacement for his impactful role on the right flank.
Sport went even further, labeling Hakimi as “the man for crucial moments,” as he has scored in every recent knockout match the team has played, from the Champions League semi-finals to the final, as well as in the French Cup and now the Club World Cup. They humorously remarked, “You’d better bet on him if you’re chasing victory in major matches.”
On the other hand, Onze Mondial asserted that Hakimi has transcended the concept of a defensive full-back, taking on attacking roles that rival those of front-line stars, highlighting that his influence in the final third of the pitch is comparable to that of any traditional winger or striker.
With this impressive display, Hakimi once again proves he is more than just a defender; he is a key piece in PSG’s system, a player who makes a difference whenever pressure mounts and competition heats up, with great anticipation for what he will deliver in the upcoming quarter-finals against the winner of the Bayern Munich versus Flamengo match.
