As the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 progresses, seven Moroccan internationals – Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain), Yassine Bounou and Abderrazak Hamdallah (Al Hilal), and Brahim Diaz and Youssef Lekhedim (Real Madrid), Adam Aznou (Bayern Munich) and Ayman Azhil (Borussia Dortmund), – are set to feature in the highly anticipated quarter-final games on July 4 and 5.
Hakimi Fuels PSG Attack and Ballon d’Or Talk
Achraf Hakimi has been a standout performer for Paris Saint-Germain, demonstrating his attacking instincts and crucial contributions from the right side. The Moroccan right-back scored in PSG’s commanding 4-0 victory over Inter Miami in the Round of 16. It’s his second goal in the tournament, following his first against Seattle in the third group game.
Hakimi’s performance is fueling demands for his Ballon d’Or win and positioning him as a strong nominee for the prestigious award.
PSG is now preparing for a challenging quarter-final clash against Bayern Munich on July 5.
Bounou.. Al Hilal’s Key Player in Club World Cup Campaign.. Hamdallah Joins the Team
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou has emerged as a true hero for Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal. In a thrilling Round of 16 encounter, Bounou delivered a phenomenal performance, making a remarkable 10 crucial saves that were instrumental in Al Hilal’s dramatic 4-3 extra-time victory over English giants Manchester City, earning widespread praise, including from Man City’s manager Pep Guardiola.
Yassine Bounou also presented a heroic performance during this tournament as he saved a crucial penalty against Real Madrid in the last minute of their opening game, and received the Man of the Match award against Red Bull Salzburg in the second game.
Bounou’s masterclass between the posts secured Al Hilal’s spot in the quarter-finals, where they will face Fluminense on July 4.
Diaz’s Contribution and Quest for More Minutes with Real Madrid
Brahim Diaz with Real Madrid has also made his mark in the tournament. The Moroccan midfielder has played a total of 78 minutes across three matches in the current FIFA Club World Cup, during which he successfully provided an assist in the second game against Pachuca.
Despite his contributions, Diaz found himself on the bench during Real Madrid’s semi-final match against Juventus, where he did not receive a single minute of playing time.
As Real Madrid prepares for their quarter-final against Borussia Dortmund on July 5, Diaz will be hoping for more opportunities to showcase his talent and help his team advance further in the competition.
Young Moroccan Talents Gaining Valuable Experience
Alongside the established stars, three young Moroccan players are also part of this year’s Club World Cup — gaining exposure at the highest level of club football, even if their playing time was limited.
Adam Aznou, the 19-year-old left-back for Bayern Munich, made his tournament debut in the group stage. He was brought on late in the match against Auckland City, registering 8 minutes on the pitch — a small but meaningful step for a player still early in his professional journey.
Aymane Azhil, 24, was included in Borussia Dortmund’s squad but did not feature in any of their four games. He remained an unused substitute throughout the competition.
The same applied to Youssef Lekhedim, the 19-year-old defender with Real Madrid, who was also on the bench for all of his team’s matches.
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