What is the secret of Morocco’s confidence before the penalty shootout? Hakimi reveals the answer

The star of the Moroccan national team, Achraf Hakimi, revealed the secret that gave the “Atlas Lions” confidence in resolving the confrontation with the Netherlands, after they snatched the ticket to qualify for the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup on penalties, stressing that the presence of goalkeeper Yassine Bounou between the three sticks gave the players a great feeling of reassurance in the decisive moments.

The Moroccan national team qualified after imposing a 1-1 draw in regular and extra time, before the “Atlas Lions” decided the confrontation on penalties, continuing their journey in the tournament and eliminating one of the most prominent candidates to compete for the title, in a new achievement added to the journey of Moroccan football in the World Cup.

Hakimi said, in television statements after the match: “We played a great match, and we did not lose our belief in ourselves at any moment. When we fell behind in the result, we showed the true character of the Moroccan national team, and we succeeded in coming back, so I think the qualification was deserved.”
He added: “I am very proud of every player on this team. Everyone gave their best, and this victory came as a result of the teamwork and spirit that distinguishes this group.”

Hakimi spoke about the penalty shootout, stressing that the players entered it with great confidence, and said: “We knew that we had Yassine Bounou, and this alone gives the team additional confidence. He is a great goalkeeper, and he is always present in crucial matches, so we were confident of our ability to qualify.”

The Moroccan national team captain also thanked the fans who supported the team in the stands, stressing that their support was a great motivation for the players throughout the match, adding: “We thank all the fans who came to support us, and we promise them that we will continue fighting to make them happy.”

Hakimi concluded his statements by emphasizing that the Moroccan national team has great ambitions in the tournament, and said: “We do not only represent Morocco, but we also represent African football, and we will do everything we have to continue this journey.”