Achraf Hakimi has apologized to FIFA President Gianni Infantino for his behavior after the defeat in the World Cup consolation final. Hakimi reportedly complained about the referee on his way to the dressing room after the match against Croatia, just a few centimeters from Infantino’s face.
Referee decisions in the small final between Croatia and Morocco often hurt the eyes. Head referee Abdul Rahman Al Jassim – perhaps not coincidentally a Qatari – completely lost control and was not helped by the VAR.
A clear penalty kick for Croatia was not whistled and yellow cards remained pocketed significantly more often than not. Croatia did not receive a single card, and Morocco ended up with two yellow cards.
Croatia didn’t let it get to her heart after finishing third. It was a little different with the frustrated Moroccans. A number of players categorically harassed the referee, Abdul Rahman Al Jassim.
Infantino is my friend and I respect him a lot. Nothing happened.
Achraf Hakimi led the way in questionable behavior towards the referee. And it didn’t stop there.
The Paris Saint-Germain right-back made a strong complaint to FIFA President Gianni Infantino on his way to the dressing room, but then apologized.
Journalists in the catacombs of the stadium saw Spanish-born Khalifa Hakimi standing “less than two inches” from Infantino and “raising his voice” about the referee.
“Nothing happened. I got angry, but after that I went to him and apologized for the words I said to him,” Hakimi told Moroccan media.
“Infantino is my friend and I respect him a lot. Nothing happened.”
“Subtly charming internet specialist. Avid writer. Friendly alcohol guru. Music ninja. Devoted social media fanatic.”
More Stories
End of Vuelta ordeal: Belgian hope Lennert van Eetvelt out of Tour
This was a powerful opening ceremony for the Paralympics, steeped in symbolism and French charm.
Mathias Delorg helps KAA Gent reach sixth straight European group stage