Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi declared the team stands firmly behind captain Achraf Hakimi after a French appeals court ruled he will face rape charges. The decision came hours before Hakimi led Morocco to a 1-0 World Cup victory over Scotland in Foxborough, where he played the full match despite facing boos from some supporters.

The Versailles appeals court ordered formal rape charges against Hakimi, stemming from allegations made by a 24-year-old woman in March 2023. Public prosecutors had previously recommended trial, and the court found sufficient evidence after reviewing investigative materials. Hakimi had appealed an earlier February ruling by an investigative judge.

Ouahbi dismissed concerns about managing Hakimi, pointing to his performance against Scotland. 'Did you see the game? I suppose you did. Hakimi was extraordinary,' the coach said. Hakimi responded on X that his case would be dismissed if he weren't famous, calling himself 'an easy target.'

Plaintiff lawyer Rachel-Flore Pardo stated the ruling brings relief after three years of legal proceedings. No trial date has been set, leaving uncertainty over Hakimi's availability for Morocco's upcoming World Cup fixtures. The case threatens to overshadow Morocco's strong tournament start.