Achraf Hakimi became Africa’s all-time World Cup appearance leader on 30 Jun 2026, playing his 15th match in the tournament during Morocco’s 3-0 win over Canada in the Round of 16. The Paris Saint-Germain right-back now holds the record for most World Cup games by any African player, breaking the previous mark of 11.
What happened?
Hakimi reached 15 appearances across three World Cups: three in Russia 2018, seven in Qatar 2022, and five so far in 2026. He started every match for Morocco in this year’s tournament, including the group stage wins over Croatia and Canada, and the knockout victory that sealed his record. His debut came in 2018, and he has played every minute of Morocco’s World Cup campaign since.
Why it matters for Achraf Hakimi?
This record isn’t just about volume—it’s about endurance on football’s biggest stage. At 27, Hakimi has been a constant force for Morocco, shifting from a young winger to a world-class full-back. He’s now the only African player to feature in three World Cup knockout rounds, including the historic 2022 semi-final run. His physicality, pace, and defensive discipline have made him indispensable.
What comes next?
Morocco faces France in the quarterfinals on 6 Jul 2026, giving Hakimi a chance to extend his record further. His teammate Azzedine Ounahi sits second among Africans with 12 appearances, while goalkeeper Yassine Bounou is tied for third with 11. If Morocco reaches the final, Hakimi could reach 18 World Cup appearances—far ahead of any African rival.
How did he get here?
Hakimi’s journey began in 2018, when he was just 19 and playing for Borussia Dortmund. He started all three group games in Russia, then became a starter in Qatar 2022, helping Morocco become the first African team to reach the semi-finals. In 2026, he’s captained the side through a tough group and a dominant Round of 16 win. His consistency has turned him from a rising star into a continental icon.
Who else is close?
Ounahi, who scored twice against Canada, is the only other African player with more than 10 World Cup appearances. Bounou, who kept clean sheets in 2018 and 2022, is tied with Cameroon’s François Omam-Biyik and Ghana’s Asamoah Gyan at 11. None have matched Hakimi’s longevity or impact across three tournaments.