“We call you towel thieves of Africa” — Hakimi brutally roasted after claiming Morocco are the ‘Brazilians of Africa’

Achraf Hakimi has found himself at the center of a social media storm after boldly claiming that Morocco are regarded as the “Brazilians of Africa.”

The 27-year-old Paris Saint-Germain defender reportedly made the remark while speaking ahead of Morocco’s highly anticipated World Cup clash against Brazil, suggesting that the Atlas Lions carry a similar footballing identity and prestige within Africa.

“We know the opponent we are facing tomorrow, we know their quality and the players they have. But we also have quality,” the reigning African player of the Year said.

“People call us the ‘Brazil of Africa’ and we have players with great abilities.”

The comment did not go down well with many supporters across the continent. Instead, it triggered a wave of mockery, disbelief and criticism, with fans questioning who exactly refers to Morocco by the famous nickname.

One of the most widely shared reactions simply read: “HE IS A LIAR‼️”

Another user responded: “I’ve lived half my life on the continent and I’ve NEVER heard anyone say that.”

Others were equally dismissive. “This is my first time hearing this”

Another fan wrote: “See e mouth, Brazil ko, Brazil ni.”

But it was one particular response that gained significant traction online.

Referring to one of the most controversial moments of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, a user wrote on X as translated from Arabic: "Liar, no one said that about you 😂 We call you the towel thieves."

The remark was a reference to Morocco’s infamous confrontation with Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali during the dramatic AFCON semi-final penalty shootout between both nations.

As tensions rose during the shootout, Moroccan players and staff were accused by critics of attempting psychological games involving Nwabali’s towels and preparation materials, an incident that quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the tournament.

The controversy never fully disappeared. In fact, it became even more sensitive months later when the AFCON final itself became the subject of unprecedented debate as the towel drama seemingly repeated itself again.

Although Senegal initially emerged victorious on the pitch, CAF later overturned the result following a successful appeal from Morocco and awarded the title to the North Africans via a 3-0 forfeit ruling.

The decision sparked outrage across large sections of African football and remains one of the most divisive topics in recent continental football history.

As a result, many fans still view Morocco through the lens of those controversies, which explains why Hakimi’s latest comments immediately reopened old wounds online.

Morocco and Brazil clash in a blockbuster Group C opener at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Saturday, June 13.

Five-time champions Brazil enter a new era under legendary manager Carlo Ancelotti, who makes his highly anticipated World Cup debut on the Seleção bench.