Zinedine Zidane gave 18-year-old Achraf Hakimi a starting role for his first match with the senior team in La Liga. Hakimi took the right-back position in place of Dani Carvajal, who for some reason was unable to take the field. The coach's decision was bold given the player's young age and lack of experience at such a high level. Hakimi, a product of the Real Madrid academy, has always attracted attention with his speed, dribbling, and ability to join attacks. Despite his young age, he has already managed to prove himself in youth tournaments and training sessions with the main team. Zidane, known for his ability to develop young players, decided to give Hakimi a chance to prove himself in an important match.
Hakimi looked confident on the pitch. From the very first minutes, he actively participated in his team's attacks, creating a numerical advantage on the flank. His speed and technique allowed him to outrun opposing defenders and deliver several dangerous crosses. Furthermore, he did not forget his defensive duties, successfully covering opposing players and intercepting balls. With each pass down the right flank, Hakimi became an increasingly visible figure on the pitch. His interaction with the forwards and central midfielders improved, and he quickly became one of the team's key attacking players. Zidane, watching his attack play, was clearly pleased with how Hakimi was adapting to the demands of playing at the highest level.
A key moment of the match was the fact that Hakimi not only defended but also actively participated in creating scoring chances. He made precise passes into the opponent's penalty area, which created additional opportunities for the team. This was especially important given that Real Madrid needed every chance they could get to strengthen their position in the standings. In addition to his game, Hakimi also demonstrated an excellent understanding of tactics. He skillfully chose the moments to join attacks, which allowed him to become not just a defender, but a full-fledged participant in attack. His confidence on the pitch was palpable, and the spectators appreciated his performance, showing their support with applause.
Although this was his La Liga debut, Hakimi showed he could handle pressure and a high level of competition. His performance is a prime example of how young players can make an impact if they are trusted and given the opportunity to prove themselves. Zidane likely saw him as the future of the club, and the coach's decision could prove key to Hakimi's future career. After the match, many pundits noted that Hakimi had demonstrated a high level of maturity for his age. His performance not only impressed the crowd but also became a topic of discussion among journalists and analysts. They predicted a bright future for the young defender, given his potential and desire to develop.
Hakimi finished the match with a 92% pass completion rate, two tackles, one interception, and several successful runs down the flank. His confident defensive play against experienced attackers such as Piatti and Moreno impressed not only the coaching staff but also the fans. Every step he took on the pitch showed that he was ready to meet the high demands of La Liga and that he was capable of handling the pressure that comes with playing for a team as renowned as Real Madrid. The right-back position requires not only physical qualities but also tactical thinking, and Hakimi demonstrated this to the fullest. His ability to read the game allowed him to anticipate his opponents' actions and react to threats in good time. When Piatti and Moreno attempted to penetrate the penalty area, Hakimi acted clearly and confidently, leaving them no chance to create dangerous opportunities.
Additionally, his high passing accuracy was an important tool in launching Real Madrid's attacks. Hakimi often launched counterattacks, joining his team's attacks, making him not only a defender but also an active participant in attack. He had an excellent sense of when to make a breakthrough, which helped the team create a numerical advantage on the flank. Every pass he made on the right flank was a source of admiration for the spectators. Hakimi displayed excellent dribbling skills, easily outrunning his opponents and leaving them behind. His speed and agility made him a nightmare for Espanyol's defenders. He constantly created a threat, forcing opponents to be attentive and not relax, which ultimately affected their play.
An equally important aspect of his performance was his interaction with his teammates. Hakimi found a common language with the central defenders and attacking players. His connection with the midfielders allowed the team to successfully control the ball and create attacking opportunities. Zidane, watching his protégé play, was visibly satisfied. The decision to include Hakimi in the starting eleven proved to be a good one and opened new horizons for the young defender. His confidence on the pitch grew with every passing minute, and this did not go unnoticed. The team felt the support of their young colleague, and this had a positive effect on the game as a whole.
An important point was that Hakimi not only played well in defense but also actively participated in offensive actions. Every time he came out on the flank, it created additional opportunities for his team. He was not afraid to take risks, make unexpected passes, and launch attacks, which added variety to Real Madrid's game. After the match, experts and analysts were full of praise for Hakimi. Many noted that his debut was a real breakthrough and that he clearly demonstrated that he was capable of occupying an important place in the team.
Real Madrid secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over Espanyol, with 18-year-old Achraf Hakimi playing a key role in the success. His outstanding performance at right-back did not go unnoticed, and after the match, coach Zinedine Zidane expressed his appreciation for the youngster. "He's young, but he deserves this level. We're happy to have Achraf," Zidane said, emphasizing Hakimi's importance to the team. The victory was not only another league triumph, but also a symbol of the trust Zidane places in young players. Hakimi, who has just started his first-team career, showed he can handle pressure and complete the tasks assigned to him by the coach. His high passing accuracy (92%) and his activity on the pitch were key factors in the team's success.
During the match, Hakimi not only played well in defensive roles but also actively participated in offensive actions. Every run he made down the flank created additional chances for Real, and his interaction with the attackers allowed the team to control the game. This highlighted not only his individual qualities but also his ability to work as a team. Zidane, known for his ability to develop young talent, clearly saw Hakimi's potential. He understood that by giving young players a chance, he could not only strengthen the team but also lay the foundations for the club's future success. Hakimi has become a shining example of how young players can have an impact on the game and is certainly an inspiration to other young players in the Real Madrid academy.
