Achraf Hakimi equals Osei Kuffour’s Champions League record

Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi has etched his name into the history books of the UEFA Champions League after equaling the long-standing appearance record held by former Ghanaian defender Samuel Osei Kuffour.

The Paris Saint-Germain full-back has now reached 72 appearances in Europe’s most prestigious club competition, matching the highest number ever recorded by an African defender in the tournament.

The enterprising defender was outstanding for the French giants, who cruised to a resounding 5-2 victory over Chelsea in the Champions League round of 16 first leg clash on Wednesday night.

Hakimi’s remarkable milestone is the result of years of consistency at the highest level of European football. The Moroccan star has been a regular presence in the Champions League since breaking onto the scene as a young talent and has steadily built his reputation as one of the most dynamic attacking full-backs in world football.

Throughout his career, Hakimi has featured in the competition with several top clubs across Europe. He first gained experience in the tournament with Spanish giants Real Madrid before continuing his development during a successful spell with Borussia Dortmund in Germany.

The defender later played in the competition with Italian champions Inter Milan and is currently a key figure for Paris Saint-Germain in France.

Matching the record previously set by Kuffour further highlights the significance of Hakimi’s achievement. The Ghanaian legend built his legacy with German powerhouse Bayern Munich during the late 1990s and early 2000s, becoming one of Africa’s most respected defenders.

Kuffour famously played a crucial role in Bayern’s triumph in the 2001 UEFA Champions League final, cementing his place in African football history.

By equaling Kuffour’s record of 72 appearances, Hakimi joins an exclusive group of African players who have consistently competed at the very top level of European club football.