Achraf Hakimi and Yassine Gessime have reacted after Morocco reached the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026 following a 4-2 victory over Haiti, www.aclsports.com reports.
The Atlas Lions, who finished second in Group C with seven points, were stunned early by Haiti but fought back through Hakimi’s equaliser before completing the comeback, with Gessime scoring Morocco’s fourth goal.
Hakimi, one of Morocco’s standout performers, admitted the match was difficult but praised the team’s response.
“It was a difficult match, especially after conceding the first goal. But we worked well to score and get back into the game as quickly as possible to take the victory. We did that, and we are very happy,” he said.
The Paris Saint-Germain defender insisted Morocco did not underestimate Haiti and knew they would be a dangerous opponent, while also stressing that focus remains on their own path rather than their next opponent, whether Japan or the Netherlands.
“We knew it was going to be a tricky match for us. Haiti had nothing to lose and a lot to gain. They wanted to score their first-ever World Cup goal and win these three points, we were aware of that,” Hakimi said.
“There is no preference. If you want to go as far as possible in this competition, you have to play against the best teams. We have to focus on ourselves, stay concentrated, and then we will see who we face.”
Hakimi also admitted Morocco must improve after conceding twice, but believes the comeback will boost the team’s confidence.
“If we conceded two goals, it means there are things we didn’t do well. We will analyse that with the coaches and staff. For the next matches, we will try to make sure that doesn’t happen again.”
Gessime, who also scored on his World Cup debut, praised Morocco’s senior players for helping the younger members of the squad settle in.
“The older players make us feel very comfortable. They make sure that we, the younger ones, settle in, give everything, and express ourselves well on the pitch,” he said.
The youngster also revealed the coach’s message that helped Morocco turn the game around.
“The coach’s message was to be patient, keep moving the ball around, maintain possession, and trust the process. In the end, we created the chances we needed and managed to take advantage of the opportunities we had.”
Morocco will now face the winner of Group F in the Round of 32.
