ESPN has called Achraf Hakimi the world's best right back, just days before Morocco faces France in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final on 10 July. The outlet says Hakimi is the only player capable of both stopping Kylian Mbappé and driving his team forward in attack.

What did ESPN say about Achraf Hakimi?

ESPN writer Ryan O'Hanlon went big on Hakimi. He said the Moroccan is "the only player in the world who is capable of defending Mbappé and contributing in the attacking third consistently over the course of the same match."

O'Hanlon added: "It's hard to think of a better superstar to have built your whole team around than the world's greatest right back." That's a heavy statement, but Hakimi's form backs it up.

Hakimi has already made history. He holds the record for the most World Cup appearances by any African player. That stat alone puts him among the continent's all-time greats.

Why the Mbappé duel matters

Hakimi and Mbappé were teammates at Paris Saint-Germain. Off the pitch, Hakimi calls their relationship brotherly. But once the whistle blows, that friendship goes out the window.

France is the tournament favorite. Morocco is the underdog. But Hakimi's ability to shift from defense to attack in seconds gives the Atlas Lions a real weapon. He can track Mbappé's runs and still pop up with a cross or a shot.

O'Hanlon didn't promise Hakimi would shut Mbappé down. He said Hakimi won't put him "in his back pocket." But he argued no one else can even try to do both jobs.

What's at stake for Morocco and Hakimi?

A win against France would put Morocco in the semi-finals. That would be a first for any African nation. Hakimi has already led Morocco deep into tournaments — they reached the semi-finals in 2022.

This quarter-final is the biggest test yet. France has world-class talent across the pitch. But Hakimi has a habit of rising to big moments. His pace, timing, and reading of the game make him a nightmare for attackers.

Morocco's squad trusts him. The fans do too. And now ESPN has put a label on it: best in the world at his position.

What comes next for Achraf Hakimi?

The France match kicks off on 10 July. If Hakimi plays at his best, Morocco has a real shot. If he can limit Mbappé's influence while creating chances, the Atlas Lions could pull off another shock.

Hakimi is 27 years old. He's in his prime. This World Cup is his chance to cement a legacy that already includes a historic African record and a reputation as the world's top right back.

Morocco's run in 2026 has already been special. A win over France would make it legendary. And Hakimi would be at the center of it all.