Morocco's Bold AFCON Knockout Move: Hakimi Returns to Lead Atlas Lions vs Tanzania
4 January 2026
Lineups and Stakes
Morocco's head coach Walid Regragui announced the starting XI for the Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 against Tanzania on Sunday evening. Hakimi starts at right-back for the first time in the tournament, after featuring as a substitute against Zambia in the group stage. He is chasing a 90th cap for the Atlas Lions. On the bench, Anas Salahuddin remains, while Bilal Khannous steps in to cover for the injured Azzedine Onahi.
Starting XI
The Morocco lineup reads: Yassine Bounou, Achraf Hakimi, Noussair Mazraoui, Nayef Aguerd, Sofiane Masina, Nayel Ainaiwi, Bilal Khannous, Saibari, Ayoub Kaabi, Ibrahim Diaz, Abdessamad Zeljouli.
Yassin Bounou – Achraf Hakimi – Noussair Mazraoui – Nayef Aguerd – Sofiane Masina – Nayel Ainaiwi – Bilal Khannous – Saibari – Ayoub Kaabi – Ibrahim Diaz – Abdessamad Zeljouli
Two additional notes: Anas Salahuddin is left on the bench, and Bilal Khennous steps in to replace the injured Azzedine Onahi. The match is set to kick off later today as Morocco chases AFCON glory.
Punchline deluge incoming: If this lineup misses the target, at least the crowd will have a great montage to rewatch. And remember, timing is everything in football—let’s hope the whistle blows with the punchline on target.
Punchline 2: Morocco’s defense is so well-organized that even the ball files a complaint; fortunately, the whistle usually settles the dispute with a clean shot on goal.
