Ouahbi backs Hakimi after boos during Morocco’s win over Scotland

Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi voiced full support for captain Achraf Hakimi after sections of the crowd booed him during the Atlas Lions’ 1-0 World Cup victory over Scotland.

The jeers came days after a French court rejected Hakimi’s appeal against an order sending him to trial over a rape allegation, which the Paris Saint-Germain defender denies.

Hakimi was booed when Morocco’s starting lineup was announced and again during parts of the match whenever he touched the ball.

Ouahbi said the coaching staff and players had not discussed the crowd reaction with Hakimi but stood firmly behind him.

“He is calm, the team is calm and he continues to perform well,” Ouahbi said, adding that he hoped Hakimi would show during the tournament why he considers him the world’s best right-back.

Hakimi has said he welcomes the opportunity to defend himself in court and present his version of events.