Hakimi banned for two matches after AFCON final incident

Morocco and Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi has been handed a two-match suspension following disciplinary action taken after an incident during the Africa Cup of Nations final, officials confirmed this week.

The Confederation of African Football imposed the ban after reviewing reports from match officials and video footage related to events that occurred in the closing stages of the final, which was marked by heightened tension on and off the pitch. CAF ruled that Hakimi’s actions constituted unsporting behaviour and a breach of competition regulations.

According to the decision, the suspension applies to CAF-organised competitions and will not affect Hakimi’s availability for club football or non-CAF international fixtures. One of the two matches is expected to be served immediately, while the second is suspended for a probationary period and would only take effect if a similar offence is committed within that timeframe.

The incident involving Hakimi occurred amid a chaotic ending to the final, which saw prolonged stoppages, protests from players and officials, and a series of confrontations following key refereeing decisions. CAF later described the scenes as damaging to the image of the tournament and said firm sanctions were necessary to reinforce discipline and respect for the laws of the game.

Neither Hakimi nor the Moroccan Football Federation has issued a detailed public response to the decision, though sources indicate the ruling has been accepted. The focus now shifts to Morocco’s upcoming fixtures and how the team adapts in the absence of one of its most influential players.