EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Achraf Hakimi has expressed that he is “ready” to take on Vinícius Júnior in Morocco‘s World Cup opener against Brazil.
The matchup between Morocco’s right-back Hakimi and Brazil’s left winger Vinícius is set for Saturday at MetLife Stadium.
The two players have faced each other in previous UEFA Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup matches while representing their clubs, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
Hakimi is clear about the challenge ahead, acknowledging that it will be a key battle in Group C.
“We are aware of Vinicius’ talent,” Hakimi mentioned during a press conference in New Jersey. “I’ve played against him multiple times, and he’s an outstanding player. I feel prepared and optimistic about our performance.”
Despite having finished fourth in the last World Cup in Qatar, Morocco enters this match as underdogs.
After securing a respectable 1-1 draw against Norway in their warm-up, Hakimi believes Morocco is well prepared to face the five-time champions Brazil.
“In the World Cup, there are no clear favorites,” stated the Champions League winner with PSG. “We recognize the quality of both teams. It’s a balanced matchup, and we hope fortune favors us to seize this opportunity. I believe there isn’t a frontrunner.”
Meanwhile, Morocco’s head coach, Mohamed Ouahbi, hopes that his familiarity with Carlo Ancelotti’s coaching career might provide a tactical edge.
Ancelotti will be making his World Cup debut after a successful tenure with clubs such as Milan, Chelsea, PSG, and Madrid.
“I’ve read all his books; perhaps this gives me an upper hand as I’m familiar with his strategies,” Ouahbi joked. “We’ve studied our opponents carefully and feel positive about our approach. Our players are in good condition and ready to perform.”
Following their clash with Brazil, Morocco will take on Haiti and Scotland in their upcoming group-stage matches.