Scotland Fans Express Disapproval During Morocco Match

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi faced intense jeering from Scotland supporters during his team's 1-0 victory over Scotland at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts, on Friday. The hostile reception began from the first minute, with the Tartan Army making their feelings clear whenever Hakimi touched the ball.

In the 20th minute, when Hakimi approached to take a corner kick near the Scottish supporters, he was met with a chorus of boos that were clearly audible on Fox's U.S. broadcast. The jeering intensified as Hakimi received more possession, with the volume reaching its peak towards the end of the first half.

"The 27-year-old is the captain of Morocco and a key player in this team, so a lot of play runs through him, and each time he touched the ball many among the Scotland support let out their boos," reported The Athletic.

Court Order Announced Hours Before Kickoff

The stadium atmosphere felt notably different from the wave of goodwill Morocco received during their remarkable run to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals in Qatar. The timing of the fans' reaction coincided with breaking news that morning that Hakimi had been ordered to stand trial on rape charges after the Versailles appeal court ruled there was sufficient evidence for the case to proceed.

A 24-year-old woman accused Hakimi of raping her in February 2023, and he was charged the following month. The player has consistently denied any wrongdoing.

Hakimi made his own statement on social media platform X before kickoff, writing: "Justice looked me in the eyes and said to me: 'If you weren't famous, there never would have been a case.' I chose to remain silent for years. I thought that staying dignified, being patient, and trusting the justice system would allow the right decisions to be made. Today, a story that is not mine is being told at the expense of my family, my life, and above all, the truth. Sometimes I feel like I've become an easy target. I've been waiting for this trial since day one. And now I'm looking forward to it. Finally, I will be able to speak."

Morocco Coach Defends Captain

Morocco's coach Mohamed Ouahbi was asked after the game about the reaction Hakimi had received from the crowd and what was being done to manage the situation.

"Did you see the game? I suppose you did," said Ouahbi. "Hakimi was extraordinary, so we're very relaxed, he's very relaxed and I believe he played really well. He was good, I don't know why we need to talk about management or other such things. He did a good job, why talk about management? He woke up in the morning, ate like everybody, he was focused, he played with everybody, he wanted to play strongly and that's what he did. We don't have to say anything — we're behind him, he's very relaxed and hopefully he's going to show he's the best wing-back in the world. I believe this is important for me, the players and the 44 million Moroccans who are following us."

Plaintiff's Lawyer Welcomes Trial Decision

The plaintiff's lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, welcomed the ruling by the six judges and said it gave her client "relief and hope."

"After more than three years of legal battles, after being slandered and dragged through the mud by Achraf Hakimi's defence, this decision brings my client relief and hope," Pardo said. "Relief at having been heard by the justice system and at having the right to a trial. The hope is that this trial will help other women, and further crack the fortress of denial and impunity surrounding sexual violence, even in the world of men's football."

No date has been set for the trial yet. Despite the off-field controversy, Hakimi continued to play a central role for Morocco, with the team remaining serious contenders as arguably the best African national team in contemporary football.