Achraf Hakimi sets Morocco assist record in 5-1 win over Niger

Achraf Hakimi scored twice and set a new Morocco record for assists in the 21st century as the Atlas Lions beat Niger 5-1 at Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca on Friday.

The Paris Saint-Germain full-back scored in the 27th and 45+3rd minutes and also supplied the assist for Youssef En-Nesyri’s goal in the 77th minute, in the third round of 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying.

Hakimi’s assist for En-Nesyri took his total for Morocco to 20 in the 21st century, making him the first player to reach that figure for the national team.

His latest display continued an outstanding run of form for club and country. Hakimi has been involved in nine goals across his past five matches, scoring five and providing four assists. The sequence underlines his attacking influence despite playing at right-back.

Morocco extend home-winning run

Morocco’s victory also extended their record in major qualifying campaigns. According to French outlet Stats Foot, they have now won 16 consecutive home matches in Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup qualifying, their best run in those competitions.

The result adds to Morocco’s strong progress in recent years, during which they have established themselves as one of the leading sides in African and world football.

Yasser Al-Zabiri opened the scoring in the fourth minute after being played in by Ibrahim Diaz, giving Mohamed Wahbi’s side an early advantage following an aggressive start from the hosts.

Hakimi doubled the lead in the 27th minute with a powerful effort from outside the penalty area. Niger responded in the 41st minute when Mohamed Abderrahmane reduced the deficit.

Niger had a chance to draw level before half-time when Youssef Ali Oumar missed a penalty in the 45th minute. Morocco then punished the visitors as Hakimi scored his second with a long-range free-kick in the third minute of added time, sending the hosts into the interval 3-1 ahead.

Hakimi turned provider after the break, creating the opportunity for En-Nesyri to score Morocco’s fourth in the 77th minute. Ayoub Oufkir completed the victory in the 90th minute.

Morocco lead Group A with nine points from their opening three matches. Gabon are second on six points, while Niger have three points in third place and Lesotho are bottom without a point.