Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi has reached a significant milestone in European football, matching the record of 83 appearances in European competitions set by his compatriot Hakim Ziyech. This achievement was accomplished on November 3, 2026, during Paris Saint-Germain's UEFA Champions League encounter against Villarreal. Hakimi's record includes 81 appearances in the UEFA Champions League and two in the Intercontinental Super Cup, accumulated during his time with Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Inter Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain.

Hakimi's European career began with Real Madrid, where he gained initial experience before moving to Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan. His performances in Germany and Italy helped establish him as a prominent attacking full-back in Europe. Since joining Paris Saint-Germain, Hakimi has continued to play a crucial role in the club's domestic and European campaigns. His current record matches that of Hakim Ziyech, who has featured in multiple European competitions, including the Champions League, Europa League, and their respective qualifying rounds.

Hakim Ziyech's 83 appearances were accumulated during his time with Chelsea, Ajax, Galatasaray, FC Twente, and Heerenveen. His record includes 45 appearances in the Champions League proper, 14 in its qualifying rounds, 17 Europa League matches, six Europa League qualifying games, and one appearance in the Intercontinental Super Cup. The similarity in their records highlights the different club journeys taken by the two Moroccan internationals, with Ziyech featuring in both the Champions League and Europa League, while Hakimi built most of his tally in the Champions League.

Achraf Hakimi has the opportunity to break Hakim Ziyech's record in the upcoming match against Roma on November 25, 2026. Another appearance would give Hakimi 84 matches, making him the sole holder of the Moroccan record in European competitions. This potential milestone adds another chapter to the growing list of Moroccan players who have made their mark in European football.

The match against Villarreal also saw other notable milestones for Paris Saint-Germain figures. Coach Luis Enrique became the first manager to reach 50 Champions League matches with a French club. Additionally, Portuguese midfielder Vitinha maintained his record of featuring in all 58 of PSG's Champions League matches since joining the club in the summer of 2022.

Achraf Hakimi's achievement is a significant addition to his career, showcasing his consistency and durability in European competitions. His record-breaking potential against Roma will be closely watched by fans and football enthusiasts. If successful, Hakimi will solidify his position as one of Morocco's most capped players in European football.

The milestone achieved by Achraf Hakimi highlights his growth as a player and his contributions to Paris Saint-Germain's European campaigns. As the football world continues to follow his progress, Hakimi's record-breaking potential will be a key storyline in the coming weeks, particularly with the upcoming match against Roma.

Key points

  • Achraf Hakimi equals Hakim Ziyech's record of 83 European appearances.
  • Hakimi has the opportunity to break Ziyech's record against Roma on November 25.
  • Other PSG figures, including coach Luis Enrique and midfielder Vitinha, also achieved notable milestones during the Villarreal match.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.