The Champions League match between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Bayern Munich on November 4, 2025, ended in heartbreak for Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi. Following a reckless challenge from Luis Diaz, Hakimi left the field on crutches, visibly distressed and clutching his ankle. The incident has raised concerns among PSG supporters and Moroccan fans alike, with many anxiously awaiting updates on the severity of his injury.
The incident unfolded just before halftime at the Parc des Princes, where Bayern was leading 2-0, thanks to a brace from Diaz. The Colombian winger’s performance took a disastrous turn when he lunged at Hakimi with both feet, resulting in a challenge that left the PSG player in agony. Although the referee initially issued a yellow card, the decision was overturned after a review by VAR, leading to Diaz’s dismissal from the match. This marked a pivotal moment, as the damage to Hakimi was significant enough to prompt immediate medical attention.
After several tense minutes, Hakimi was assisted off the pitch, tears visible on his face—a profoundly moving scene for fans and players alike. Marquinhos, the captain of PSG, expressed cautious optimism, stating, “We’ll need to wait for the tests” to fully understand the extent of the injury. The uncertainty surrounding Hakimi’s condition adds to the anxiety felt by supporters, especially with the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) hosted in Morocco.
Impact on AFCON and PSG’s Season
For Hakimi, the timing of the injury could not be worse. The 2025 AFCON is set to begin in December, and the prospect of leading Morocco on home soil adds personal significance to the tournament. Earlier this year, Hakimi emphasized the importance of the event, saying, “We have a big responsibility to win it in front of our fans.” The thought of being sidelined due to a reckless tackle is a bitter pill to swallow for the player and his supporters.
Images of Hakimi leaving the stadium with crutches and a protective boot only heightened concerns about the seriousness of his injury. Such immediate support indicates the possibility of a significant setback, raising fears that he may miss not only the AFCON but also a substantial part of the club season.
Meanwhile, Luis Diaz’s actions have not gone unnoticed in the football community. He became only the second player in Champions League history to score twice and receive a red card in the same match, a dubious distinction previously held by Antoine Griezmann in 2021. Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany offered his sentiments about the injury, saying he hoped Hakimi would recover quickly. However, PSG fans are understandably frustrated, given the circumstances surrounding Diaz’s challenge.
PSG Faces Additional Injury Challenges
The injury to Hakimi compounds an already challenging situation for PSG, which also saw Ousmane Dembele leave the match early due to discomfort after a disallowed goal. Manager Luis Enrique indicated that Dembele’s condition is unrelated to a previous injury, stating, “It’s something new. We need to be very careful.” This statement reflects a growing concern regarding the team’s injury crisis, as they navigate the season with dwindling options.
Hakimi’s absence would represent a significant loss for PSG, where he has been a key player, known for his speed and defensive prowess. Replacing his contributions will be a daunting task for the coaching staff. For Morocco, the implications are even more profound. Without their captain, the hopes of a nation could be severely affected, particularly when considering the symbolic weight of hosting AFCON.
As PSG awaits medical test results, all eyes will be on Hakimi’s recovery. The outcome will not only impact his club but will also resonate throughout Moroccan football, where his leadership is vital. In a sport that can deliver both joy and heartbreak, this incident serves as a poignant reminder of the fragile nature of athletic careers and the dreams they encompass. The coming days are critical, and both PSG fans and Moroccan supporters are left hoping for a positive update.
