Hakimi’s Right Flank: Morocco’s Game-Changer vs Netherlands

Morocco has several weapons to worry the Netherlands, but one of them stands out: Achraf Hakimi’s right flank. Since the start of the World Cup, the Moroccan player has occupied a central place in the Atlas Lions’ game, both through his volume and his ability to create danger.

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Against Brazil, Hakimi had already been one of the most prominent Moroccans. Opta data gave him the best Moroccan rating of the match, with 8.42. In that encounter, he multiplied interventions and runs while remaining valuable in duels. Against Scotland, he again weighed in on Moroccan control, with significant activity on his flank.

But it was especially against Haiti that his offensive influence appeared in striking fashion. During Morocco’s 4-2 victory, Hakimi scored, provided an assist, attempted five shots, three of which were on target, and created seven shooting opportunities. A rare return for a defender, which confirms his role as a true attacking fullback in this team.

An offensive weapon, but a balance to find

This role could become decisive against the Netherlands. The Oranje impressed in the group stage, with ten goals scored in three matches. But they also conceded in each of their matches: two goals against Japan, one against Sweden and one against Tunisia. Their defense is therefore far from untouchable.

Morocco can seek to exploit these spaces, particularly when Dutch fullbacks advance or when the opposing block becomes disorganized after losing the ball. In this regard, Hakimi is one of the best positioned to accelerate, combine and bring danger into the box.

His understanding with Morocco’s attacking midfielders will be one of the keys to the match. With Brahim Diaz, Bilal El Khannouss, Ismael Saibari and Azzedine Ounahi, Morocco has players capable of fixing play inside to free up the flank.

But this gamble also carries a risk. By advancing so much, Hakimi inevitably leaves space behind him. The Netherlands have the players to exploit it quickly, particularly on transitions and quick switches of play. Morocco will therefore need to protect this flank intelligently, without restraining one of its main weapons.

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The whole challenge will be there: allowing Hakimi to cause damage without exposing the team. If Morocco manages to find this balance, the right flank could become one of the great flashpoints of this Round of 16. In a match where details will weigh heavily, Achraf Hakimi could well be the one who changes everything.