Morocco is hardly an international tournament favorite when pitted against European giants. But in five World Cup appearances, we’ve seen nothing but determined and brave players step on the pitch. The nation makes its way back to the big stage for the sixth time after a positive qualification campaign, with one of PSG’s essential pieces. Without further ado, here’s Nitrobetting’s 2022 FIFA World Cup Player Spotlight: Achraf Hakimi.

2022 FIFA World Cup Player Spotlight: Achraf Hakimi

What a Champions League night! ✨ pic.twitter.com/BY12gQBqxa

— Achraf Hakimi (@AchrafHakimi) September 6, 2022

Full of European soccer experience at a young age

Hakimi has already featured in some of the biggest clubs in Europe over the last five years. He made his first big break with Real Madrid where he made nine appearances and scored two goals. After spending roughly four years in Spain, he was sent to Borussia Dortmund on loan and played in the Bundesliga for two seasons. The right-back had more playing time in Germany as he appeared in 54 games and scored seven goals.

Following a fruitful campaign with Dortmund, the Madrid native then took his skills to Serie A where he played for Inter Milan and concluded his season with 37 appearances and seven goals. Now playing for Ligue 1 juggernauts Paris Saint-Germain as starting defender, Hakimi worked his way up to the starting 11 and is a central component of the Morocco national soccer team.

Morocco defense foal point

Borussia Dortmund gave Achraf Hakimi the biggest break of his career. Upon signing for the club, he was profiled as a swift, dynamic, and powerful piece. He can play right-sided attacking full-back or even wing-back. The Moroccan is tactically gifted and technically capable of playing accurate long balls from the backline. With the abilities of a winger, he can also stand his ground on defense due to his physical presence.

The 23-year-old is now considered by many to be one of the best defenders and right-backs in the world after several years of playing in Europe. Despite coming in as +750 sleepers in Group, we highly anticipate his World Cup debut.

An improved player come November

This 2022 FIFA World Cup Player Spotlight: Achraf Hakimi emphasizes his dominating session with Inter that secured the Serie A title with seven goals and 11 assists, which was an imperative part of the team. He made 41 appearances across all competitions while setting up teammates for solid chances.

Although these were not the numbers many expected from the Moroccan international now that he is part of a ‘super team’ packed with world-class forwards, we expect the new PSG coach, Galtier, to employ an attacking style that gives his full-backs more chances to push up. Ultimately, this is likely to play to Hakimi’s advantage in the ongoing 2022-23 season.

Where to Bet on the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Bitcoin

Adding to the thrill of league soccer, Nitrobetting keeps the action going with the latest 2022 FIFA World Cup odds. We house early futures odds for the winner, with more game odds as the tournament draws closer.

This is just one of the many sports betting guides that you can read here at Nitrobetting news. Stay tuned for more 2022 FIFA World Cup previews and articles, and don’t forget to check out the latest soccer betting odds at our online sportsbook.

*All odds stated are subject to change without prior notice.

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