Bounou and Hakimi make Best XI for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup

The first edition of the FIFA Club World Cup in its new and expanded format highlighted, beyond Chelsea’s triumph, the remarkable presence of Moroccan players on the international stage. Two Atlas Lions, Yassine Bounou and Achraf Hakimi, were included in the tournament’s team of the year published by the specialist platform SofaScore, in recognition of their high-level performances.

Yassine Bounou, Saudi Arabia’s wall

Bono was CLUTCH! 🧤

All the key stops from one of the heroes of Al Hilal’s quarter-final qualification. 💪🧱

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The Hilal goalkeeper shone brightly throughout the competition, particularly during the crucial match against Manchester City. With his decisive saves, Bounou not only kept his team afloat, but also solidified his status as a world-class last line of defense. His reading of the game, his composure, and his ability to extinguish dangerous situations were praised by observers.

Achraf Hakimi, between rigor and panache

Achraf Hakimi’s assist and Ousmane Dembélé’s finish in slow mo — pure art ⚽️🎨

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On the right flank, Achraf Hakimi once again demonstrated his full range. In both defense and attack, the Paris Saint-Germain player stood out for his consistency and impact. With two goals and two assists to his name, he was a key driving force in the Parisians’ run to the final. His positioning, incisive runs, and technical precision logically earned him a place in the ideal eleven.

Chelsea crowned, Morocco honored

 

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While Chelsea dominated the final (3-0 against PSG) to win the first club world title in this new format, Morocco can boast a more than honorable representation. The inclusion of Bounou and Hakimi in the team of the year illustrates the consistency and level of performance of the Moroccan internationals, who confirm their status as key figures in world football.

EDITOR NOTE: This article is translated from the original written in French by Omar Chraibi for Pan-Africa Football.