Mbappe provided an injury update after being subbed off against Morocco, but he made his impact while he was on the pitch. With a goal and an assist, Mbappe showed no signs of being affected by the missed penalty. His cool, calm, and collected mindset was on full display as Mbappe admitted he felt no emotions about sending a close friend home from soccer’s biggest tournament.

Although Hakimi and Morocco will receive millions in prize money after their World Cup elimination, that figure served as little consolation after yet another defeat at the hands of Mbappe and France.

“[Was it difficult to see Hakimi sad?] No, there are no feelings involved on the pitch. I’m here to win,” Mbappe admitted to reporters after the game in Boston (Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA). “It’ll be difficult when I see him in the locker room and we go back to being humans and friends.“

Mbappe shows mentality

When he steps onto a soccer pitch, Mbappe puts up a shield. He shows no emotions and will go any distance to win. He has made that crystal clear throughout his career and at the 2026 World Cup.

Those searching for recent examples can look at Mbappe’s antics against Paraguay in the Round of 16, when he was involved in several arguments before, during, and after the game with opposing players, including Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill.

Against Morocco, he was no different, showing no remorse even after seeing Hakimi in tears as Argentine referee Facundo Tello blew the full-time whistle. While it may be polarizing, this mentality has paid off for Mbappe, who’s having arguably his best World Cup—which is saying a lot.

Mbappe’s numbers at 2026 World Cup

Mbappe has been a man on a mission. Through six games at the 2026 World Cup, he’s scored eight goals and assisted three others. Mbappe’s eight goals are tied for the most at the 2026 World Cup with Lionel Messi. In fact, Mbappe and Messi’s scoring performances at the World Cup don’t look exactly identical, but they do rhyme.

Mbappe has scored eight goals in back-to-back World Cups, becoming the first player to ever accomplish such a feat in soccer’s biggest tournament. As Mbappe can’t put a foot wrong, it’s easy to see why he doesn’t have time to feel sorry for his opponents, even when it’s Hakimi.

In the final minutes of the first half, Hakimi and Laryea battled for possession near Canada’s penalty box. The Moroccan star gave the Canadian fullback a slight shove, provoking an immediate response and sparking a heated confrontation.

Referee Michael Oliver, who was officiating the Canada vs. Morocco match, had to quickly intervene to separate the two players. The scuffle ultimately resulted in yellow cards for both men, though Laryea believed his reaction was entirely justified given the high stakes and intensity of the match.

“He’s fighting to defend his country and team, and I’m doing the exact same,” Laryea told TSN following the 3-0 defeat. “I got there [to the ball] first and he shoves me. I wanted to defend myself, my country, and my teammates, and show them it was not going to be an easy game. He is one of the best, if not the best, at his position, and it was important to let him know we were not going to let them walk all over us.“

Canada held strong until the second half

Canada’s head coach, Jesse Marsch, expressed belief that his squad outperformed Morocco for large stretches despite the definitive final scoreline. He certainly has a case for the opening half, as the CANMNT provided stubborn opposition during the first 45 minutes, successfully keeping the match scoreless against the odds.

However, the second half proved disastrous for Canada. The collapse began in the 50th minute with an opening goal from Azzedine Ounahi. As the Canadians pushed forward in a desperate attempt to level the score, Morocco ruthlessly exploited the vacated spaces, netting two more goals to comfortably seal the 3-0 victory.

Despite the painful exit, this tournament marks Canada’s most successful FIFA World Cup run in history. Now, all eyes turn toward the 2030 cycle, with a growing long-term project that gives soccer fans across the country plenty of reason to believe better things are on the horizon.

Yassine Bounou, Sofyan Amrabat and Brahim Diaz are among the most prominent names in the squad, which already made history at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. There, it finished in fourth place after losing 2–1 to Croatia in the third-place playoff.

In addition to Brazil, Morocco share Group C with Haiti and Scotland. The team, coached by Mohamed Ouahbi, knows it has what it takes to progress beyond the group stage and aims to make a strong impact in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Morocco, the reigning African champions

Morocco’s triumph in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will forever be remembered as one of the most dramatic and controversial chapters in recent soccer history. Despite Senegal initially securing a 1–0 victory on the pitch in Rabat, the match was completely overshadowed when the Senegalese squad walked off the field in protest over a late, contentious penalty decision during stoppage time.

Following months of intense debate, the CAF Appeal Board ultimately ruled that Senegal’s walkout constituted a formal forfeit, stripping them of the title and retrospectively awarding the host nation a 3–0 victory. This unprecedented administrative decision finally cemented Morocco as the official continental champions.

Qualification for the 2026 World Cup

Morocco’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup stands as a masterclass in continental dominance during the CAF qualifiers. Competing in Group E, the Atlas Lions delivered a flawless campaign, securing a perfect record of eight victories from eight matches.

Their absolute control was reflected in a staggering goal difference of +20, scoring 22 goals while conceding just twice throughout the entire group stage. By comfortably brushing aside competitors like Niger, Tanzania, Zambia, and Congo, Morocco effortlessly locked down the top spot in their group to book their direct ticket to the tournament, solidifying their reputation as one of Africa’s most formidable and elite soccer powerhouses.

He picked up the injury during PSG’s dramatic 5–4 win in the first leg, where he remained on the pitch despite visible discomfort after hurting his thigh late in the match. Medical tests later confirmed a serious muscle injury for Hakimi with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon.

With the semifinal still finely balanced, losing a player who contributes both defensively and offensively adds another layer of difficulty for the French side as they attempt to protect their aggregate lead and secure a place in the UCL final. However, Bayern are also missing a key starter in Serge Gnabry today.

How and when did Achraf Hakimi get injured?

Achraf Hakimi got injured during the first leg against Bayern Munich, suffering a right thigh muscle injury late in the match while assisting a goal. The issue occurred in the closing stages of PSG’s 5–4 win, when the defender pulled up holding his thigh after an intense sprint and challenge.

Despite the injury, he remained on the pitch because they had already used all their substitutions, forcing him to finish the match under visible discomfort. What initially appeared to be cramps was later confirmed through medical tests as a muscle injury in the thigh/adductor area, a critical zone for acceleration and directional changes. Bad news for PSG as they face different scenarios depending on their result against Bayern in today’s second leg.

How long will Achraf Hakimi be out?

Achraf Hakimi is expected to be out for several weeks, with early estimates indicating a recovery period that will sideline him through the Champions League semifinal second leg. PSG confirmed shortly after the first leg that the defender would miss the return match in Munich.

Medical assessments suggest the injury involves a muscle tear or strain, which typically requires multiple weeks of recovery depending on severity. Reports consistently indicate that he will be monitored week-to-week.

How important has Achraf Hakimi been to PSG’s roster?

Achraf Hakimi has been one of the most important players, serving as a key attacking outlet from defense and a constant presence in both phases of play. His impact is reflected not only in his role but also in his production across the season.

From a statistical standpoint, he has contributed directly in attack despite playing as a defender. In the UEFA Champions League alone, he has recorded 1 goal and 5 assists in 11 appearances, underlining how frequently he influences PSG’s offensive sequences from the right flank.

Across domestic competition, he has also maintained strong output, with multiple goals and assists while logging heavy minutes and maintaining a high performance rating. His ability to generate chances is further supported by advanced metrics, including consistent key passes and involvement in build-up play in the final third.

The Moroccan fullback suffered the injury in the back of his right thigh in the final minutes, 88’, of the first leg, in which PSG defeated Bayern Munich 5-4 on Tuesday in Paris. His team had already used all substitutions, and Hakimi finished the match despite the injury.

Hakimi collapsed on the pitch after contesting a ball with Konrad Laimer in the closing moments of the game and immediately grabbed the back of his right leg, eventually leaving the field in pain, but returning due to the lack of substitutions.

Is his presence at the World Cup in doubt?

He is already ruled out for the second leg, and from there, only 38 days remain until Morocco’s debut in the World Cup against Brazil in Group C, where Haiti and Scotland are also present.

All indications suggest that Hakimi will arrive at the World Cup without major issues, but with the concern of losing rhythm, the rest presents a good option considering that this World Cup is longer.

What is next for Hakimi?

If PSG advance past Bayern, they will face Arsenal or Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League final on May 30. He is expected to be available for that match.

Hakimi, who finished sixth in last year’s Ballon d’Or voting, is expected to be a key piece for Morocco in this summer’s World Cup. Morocco, who reached the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup, will play their first match on June 13 against Brazil.

Hakimi suffered the injury following a harsh tackle by Luis Diaz, which resulted in the Colombian’s red card. Since then, the Moroccan international has been focused on recovery, ruling him out for this decisive final.

The Moroccan had enjoyed a strong season in the Champions League and Ligue 1, showcasing his ability to influence games at both ends of the pitch. Missing him for an international final is a notable setback for the team, testing PSG’s tactical flexibility and squad depth.

Confirmed replacement for Hakimi

PSG boast a roster abundant with talented players, offering options to cover Hakimi’s absence. For this vital encounter, coach Luis Enrique will line up with Warren Zaire‑Emery, filling the vacant role to preserve balance while compensating for Hakimi’s absence.

Here is PSG’s confirmed XI for today’s game: Safonov; Nuno Mendes, Willian Pacho, Marquinhos, Warren Zaire‑Emery; Fabian, Vitinha, Joao Neves; Lee Kang-In, Desire Doue, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

Ousmane Dembele is sidelined due to illness, and Achraf Hakimi is nursing an injury sustained in the match against Bayern Munich, during which Luis Diaz was sent off for a dangerous tackle.

Despite the absence of these two key players, PSG remain poised to make a significant impact in the Champions League, as they have consistently generated attention with their dynamic playing style and formidable offense.

Conversely, Athletic Club aim to challenge the French side and make their own push up the standings, as they strive to secure a direct spot in the round of 16, thereby avoiding the playoff round.

Confirmed replacements for Dembele and Hakimi

PSG boast a roster abundant with talented players, providing opportunities to fill the void left by these two crucial players, who have been instrumental in both the attack and defense for the French team.

For this vital encounter, head coach Luis Enrique has chosen Barcola and Zaire-Emery to step onto the field, replacing those unavailable for the match against Athletic Club.

Here is PSG’s confirmed lineup for today’s game in the Champions League:

• Goalkeeper: Safonov
• Defenders: Zaire-Emery, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes
• Midfielders: Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz
• Forwards: Barcola, Mayulu, Kvaratskhelia

Diaz capitalized quickly, tapping in a rebound off goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier just three minutes into the match for the 1-0 lead. He struck again in the 31st minute, stealing the ball from Marquinhos deep in the defense to slot home the 2-0 goal for the German club.

The dramatic shift occurred in stoppage time at the end of the first half. Diaz attempted to strip the ball from Hakimi but committed a dangerous tackle that resulted in a severe injury, forcing the PSG defender to leave the field. Following a review by the VAR, the Colombian forward was shown the red card, leaving Bayern Munich with 10 players for the entire second half.

In doing so, Luis Diaz became the first player in Champions League history to score a brace and be sent off in the first half of a match, according to MisterChip on X (formerly Twitter).

More problems mount for PSG

While PSG have yet to release an official statement regarding Hakimi’s injury, the severity suggests the Moroccan defender may be facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

This certainly compounds the bad news for manager Luis Enrique, who is adding another injured star to his roster. During the match itself, Ousmane Dembele had to be replaced in the first half after sustaining a new injury, according to a report from Fabrizio Romano. Furthermore, the French side is already without Desire Doue, who is expected to miss several weeks due to a muscle injury in his right thigh.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Hakimi explained that while he won’t face Yamal directly, the 18-year-old winger will have to deal with “the best left-back in the world” in Nuno Mendes.

“Lamine is not on my side, but he will be up against the best left-back in the world in Nuno Mendes,” Hakimi said. “He is capable of stopping him, as he has done already, and as he has stopped other attackers with the same style as Lamine in the past. He is well prepared”.

The Moroccan defender referenced the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League final, when Mendes helped Portugal shut down Spain and Yamal, while also scoring in the match.

“But the strength of our team is the help we provide to each other,” Hakimi added. “We will try to support Nuno so he isn’t left one-on-one, because we know what Lamine can do in those situations”.

Injury concerns on both sides

Both PSG and Barcelona will be without key players for this crucial Champions League clash. PSG manager Luis Enrique is missing his entire first-choice attacking trio of Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, all sidelined with injuries, along with captain Marquinhos.

Barcelona boss Hansi Flick also faces significant absences. Raphinha and goalkeeper Joan Garcia were both injured in the recent LaLiga match against Real Oviedo, and they join Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Gavi, and Fermin Lopez on the sidelines. The good news for Barça, however, is the return of superstar Lamine Yamal, who is expected to start in this high-stakes encounter.

Notably, Dembele and Yamal, representing PSG and Barcelona respectively, are among the frontrunners to claim the prestigious trophy, an accolade famously dominated by Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. As the Ballon d’Or marks its 69th edition in Paris, the competition is fiercer than ever.

Some players, however, are aware they won’t make the top 10. Vinicius Jr., who astonishingly secured second place behind Rodri in last year’s edition, finds himself ranked 16th this time. Similarly, his teammate Jude Bellingham, formerly third, has slipped to 23rd in the rankings.

With neither Ronaldo nor Messi among the nominees, one anticipated attendee, Kylian Mbappe, will instead be tuning into the awards remotely. Despite expectations, Mbappe will not be present to witness the crowning of soccer’s new king in person.

Why are Vitinha and Hakimi absent from the 2025 Ballon d’Or gala?

Vitinha and Achraf Hakimi will miss the 2025 Ballon d’Or gala because they are slated to play for PSG in a pivotal clash against Olympique Marseille. This historic matchup could be crucial for PSG’s quest to maintain their lead in the Ligue 1 standings.

Due to an injury, Dembele has been granted permission to attend the ceremony, bolstering his status as one of the favorites for the award. Accompanying Dembele at the event are PSG teammates Joao Neves and Desire Doue.

With global anticipation building, fans are eager to see who will take home the Ballon d’Or this year. Hakimi and Vitinha, meanwhile, will find out the results shortly after their match concludes.

The matchup marks a highly anticipated reunion, as Messi is set to face PSG for the first time since leaving the French giants for MLS. Ahead of the game, PSG star Achraf Hakimi shared his thoughts—and a subtle warning—for his former teammate.

“It would be great to see Messi again,” said Hakimi. The Moroccan international praised the Argentine’s time in Paris before drawing a competitive line in the sand. “I spent two great years with him. But once we’re on the pitch, there are no friends. He’ll try to win, and so will we“.

PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma also looked ahead to the clash with Inter Miami, telling DAZN after the draw was finalized: “It’s fantastic for us and for me,” said the Italian international.

Donnarumma went on to reflect on Messi’s two-year stint at PSG: “Leo is a great friend. I lived here with him for two fantastic years in which we played with the best player in the world. But now, I hope we win—he’s already won plenty of titles“.

PSG’s message to Messi

The storyline of Messi facing his former club adds further intrigue to the match—not just because PSG represents European dominance in the tournament, but also because it’s the last club Messi played for in Europe before moving to the United States.

On Messi’s 38th birthday, PSG acknowledged their former No. 10 with a pointed message via X (formerly Twitter): “Happy birthday, Leo Messi!” the club wrote, sharing a photo of the Argentine icon. But it didn’t end there. In a playful, competitive twist, they added: “See you Sunday“.

When is Inter Miami vs. PSG?

Inter Miami will face Paris Saint-Germain in the Round of 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup on Sunday, June 29, with kickoff at Mercedes–Benz Stadium in Atlanta.