Morocco have been rocked just hours before their World Cup showdown with Scotland after captain Achraf Hakimi was ordered to stand trial on a rape charge in France.
The Paris Saint-Germain defender is due to lead the Atlas Lions into their crucial Group C clash with Steve Clarke's side in Boston on Friday night, but the bombshell development has thrown fresh uncertainty around his participation.
Hakimi, 27, has consistently denied allegations made by a woman who accused him of raping her at his home in Paris in 2023 when she was 24.
French prosecutors confirmed an investigating judge ordered the case to proceed to trial in February this year. According to French media reports, Hakimi recently failed in an attempt to have the case dismissed on appeal.
Hakimi's Statement
The Morocco skipper took to social media on Friday to reiterate his innocence. He wrote: "The justice system looked me in the eye and said, 'If you weren't famous, there would never have been a case.'
"I chose to remain silent for years. I believed that maintaining my dignity, being patient, and trusting in the justice system would allow the right decisions to be made.
"Today, a story that isn't mine is being told at the expense of my family, my life, and above all, the truth. I sometimes feel like I've become an easy target.
"I've been waiting for this trial since day one. And now I'm eagerly awaiting it. Finally, I'll be able to speak."
Plaintiff's Lawyer Reacts
Rachel-Flore Pardo, the plaintiff's lawyer, welcomed the decision to move forward with a trial.
"After more than three years of legal proceedings, and after my client was, in her view, defamed and dragged through the mud by Achraf Hakimi's defence, this decision brings her relief and hope.
"Relief that she has been heard by the justice system and will have the right to a trial.
"Hope that this trial will help other women and further weaken the wall of denial and impunity surrounding sexual violence, including in the world of men's football."
No date has yet been set for the start of the trial.
