RABAT, Morocco (AP) – Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has appealed to supporters of the host nation at the African Cup of Nations to stop blowing the whistle at their team.
“It’s not normal for supporters to whistle,” Hakimi said on Sunday before Monday’s final group match between Morocco and Zambia. “I need that 12th person.”
Morocco’s players were also subjected to whistles from the home fans at half-time and at full-time after the match. Disappointing 1-1 draw against Mali on friday.
“We need fans,” Hakimi said. “But we have to respect our rivals. They are not easy opponents.”
Morocco, ranked 11th, the highest among African teams, will reach the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup and are considered favorites to win the 35th edition of the tournament. The Atlas Lions will play all their group matches at the 70,000-capacity Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in the capital, Rabat, and will also play their first knockout tournament there if they finish top of their group.
“We know that our fans want us to win all the time. Even though the World Cup is over and a new Morocco has been born, we must not forget to keep our feet on the ground. Having AFCON at home will help us, but it will also help us if things are easier. We need them. And in terms of criticism of the coach, he did a great job. He changed the mentality, even my mentality.
Morocco lead Group A with four points after two games, two ahead of Mali and Zambia, while Comoros sit top of the table with one point ahead of their final group game against Mali, also on Monday.
The top two from each group and the best third place finisher will advance.
Hakimi was referring to his experience at his club Paris Saint-Germain, where players were whistled before the team won the Champions League in May.
“People said we weren’t a great team. At the end of the day we are European champions, so yeah,” Hakimi said.
Morocco coach Walid Legulagui said Hakimi will make his first appearance in the tournament against Zambia. Recovering from ankle injuryas a starter or substitute.
“He is the best player in Africa,” Legulagi said.
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Associated Press on Africa Cup: https://apnews.com/hub/africa-cup-of-nations
