World Cup 2026: Achraf Hakimi booed throughout Morocco's win over Scotland

Hakimi in action against Scotland in Boston (Getty)Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi was booed throughout his side’s 1-0 FIFA World Cup victory over Scotland after a French appeals court confirmed he will stand trial in a rape case.The PSG defender was jeered by sections of the crowd in Boston almost every time he touched the ball, just hours after the Versailles Court of Appeal upheld a decision for the case to proceed to trial.Despite the hostile reception, Hakimi completed the match and helped Morocco secure an important victory that strengthened their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.The 27-year-old has consistently denied the allegation, which stems from a complaint made by a 24-year-old woman in 2023. He was placed under formal investigation in March of that year before an investigative judge ruled earlier this year that there was sufficient evidence for the case to go to trial.Hakimi appealed that decision, but the appeals court rejected the challenge on Friday.In a statement posted on social media before the ruling was made public, Hakimi maintained his innocence and said he believed the case would never have reached court if he were not a high-profile footballer.”I have been waiting for this trial since the first day,” Hakimi wrote.”Finally, I will be able to speak.”His lawyer, Fanny Colin, also criticised the ruling, arguing that the investigation uncovered evidence that should have led to the case being dismissed.The complainant’s lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, welcomed the decision, saying it brought her client “relief and hope” after more than three years of legal proceedings.No date has yet been set for the trial.Hakimi remains available for Morocco and set a new African record of 12 FIFA World Cup appearances during the victory over Scotland, surpassing Ghana legend Asamoah Gyan’s previous mark of 11.