Regragui Confident in Hakimi's AFCON Availability, Names Mazraoui as Backup

Walid Regragui, head coach of the Moroccan national team, has affirmed that Noussair Mazraoui is the optimal replacement for star Achraf Hakimi, whose participation in the initial matches of the Africa Cup of Nations is uncertain following an injury sustained with Paris Saint-Germain last week.

Addressing the right-back position in light of Hakimi's injury, the national coach stated: "Mazraoui does not possess the same characteristics as Achraf; he is not a player who attacks in depth, even though he created beautiful link-ups today with Brahim Diaz."

Regragui further added: "My expectation is that Achraf will be at the Africa Cup of Nations, and the issue will be resolved. If Achraf is absent, then naturally, this is Noussair's best position."