Will Achraf Hakimi Play Today for Morocco in World Cup 2026 amid Legal Case in France?

As Morocco prepare to face Scotland in a crucial Group C encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup this evening at Gillette Stadium in Boston, all eyes are on whether star defender Achraf Hakimi will feature for the Atlas Lions.

The 27-year-old Paris Saint-Germain right-back and national team captain remains central to Morocco’s ambitions following their hard-fought 1-1 draw against Brazil in the opening match.

Having played a pivotal role in Morocco’s historic run to the semifinals at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the experienced captain was widely expected to start against Scotland. A positive result against Scotland would significantly boost Morocco’s chances of advancing from a competitive group that also includes Haiti.

Achraf Hakimi suffers Legal Case

The timing of today’s match coincides with a significant development in Hakimi’s ongoing legal case in France. The allegation of rape dates back to February 2023, when a woman accused the player of sexual assault at his home in Nanterre. Hakimi has consistently and categorically denied any wrongdoing from the outset.

In February 2026, a judge ruled that Hakimi must stand trial on the charges. His legal team appealed the decision, arguing that the case relies solely on the complainant’s testimony and that she had declined to participate in key investigative procedures, including medical examinations and DNA testing. On June 19, 2026, the Versailles Court of Appeal upheld the decision, confirming that Hakimi will proceed to trial in the Hauts-de-Seine criminal court. No trial date has been set at this stage.

Will Achraf Hakimi Play Today?

Achraf Hakimi, for now, is expected to play football and is set to feature for Morocco in their next match today (Friday, June 19).

Importantly, the court proceedings have no impact on Hakimi’s eligibility to play professional football. He continues to represent both Paris Saint-Germain and the Moroccan national team without restriction. The Moroccan Football Federation and national team coaching staff have expressed full support for his participation in the World Cup squad. Hakimi himself has stated that he remains calm and confident that the judicial process will ultimately reveal the truth.

As the Atlas Lions step onto the pitch this evening, the focus remains firmly on football. Hakimi is anticipated to deliver another commanding performance, bringing leadership, defensive solidity, and attacking threat to help Morocco secure a vital result in their World Cup campaign.