Moroccan international footballers Achraf Hakimi and Sofiane Boufal have become the center of a social media controversy after their activity was linked to Senegal's recent qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The players were noted to have 'liked' posts on social media platform X that celebrated Senegal's decisive victory over Mali in the final round of CAF qualifiers on March 25, 2026.
The incident drew significant attention from fans and media in Morocco, where the national team, known as the Atlas Lions, failed to qualify for the same tournament. Some supporters interpreted the players' actions as a lack of solidarity with their own national team's disappointing campaign.
In response to the growing criticism, both players clarified their positions. Achraf Hakimi stated his 'likes' were intended as a gesture of sportsmanship and support for his Paris Saint-Germain teammate and Senegalese international, Idrissa Gueye. Similarly, Sofiane Boufal emphasized his respect for all African teams and explained his action was not meant as a slight against Morocco.
The Moroccan Royal Football Federation (FRMF) has not issued an official statement regarding the players' social media activity. The controversy highlights the intense scrutiny athletes face online and the diplomatic nuances of interactions between rival national teams in the interconnected world of modern football.
