Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi delivered a remarkable performance at the weekend, scoring the first hat-trick of his career as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) thrashed Le Havre 5-1 in the French Ligue 1.
The reigning African Footballer of the Year was instrumental in all five goals, scoring three times and providing assists for Mika Godts and Senny Mayulu as PSG strengthened their position at the top of the league.
Le Havre initially took the lead through Nigerian-born striker Josh Maja, but PSG quickly recovered. Hakimi helped set up the equalizer before putting the visitors ahead with a powerful finish.
The Moroccan defender added his second after the break with a free-kick before completing his hat-trick in the 69th minute, capping an outstanding display from the right-back.
The victory extended PSG’s winning run in all competitions to nine matches and left them at the top of the Ligue 1 standings.
Jackson continues impressive scoring run
In England, Senegalese striker Nicolas Jackson continued his fine form for Aston Villa, scoring his eighth goal in 12 appearances for the club.
Jackson found the net in Villa’s 1-1 draw against Fulham, taking his tally to five goals in his last five Premier League appearances. Despite his contribution, Villa were unable to secure all three points.
Awoniyi opens Coventry account
Nigerian forward Taiwo Awoniyi scored his first league goal for Coventry City in a 3-1 victory over Sunderland.
The striker made the most of his first start since September, winning possession before driving into the penalty area and firing into the bottom corner.
The result helped Coventry climb out of the Premier League relegation zone.
Diomande shines for Real Madrid
Ivory Coast teenager Yan Diomande also made headlines in Spain, scoring in Real Madrid’s 3-0 victory over Racing Santander.
The youngster struck from the edge of the box in the 37th minute to complete the scoring before half-time.
African stars make their mark in Germany and Italy
In Germany, Guinea international Serhou Guirassy scored for Borussia Dortmund in their 2-2 draw against Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich. The goal took his tally to eight across all competitions this season.
Algerian midfielder Ibrahim Maza scored for Bayer Leverkusen in their 4-2 defeat to Stuttgart, while Morocco’s Bilal El Khannouss also found the net and helped create another goal in Stuttgart’s victory.
Meanwhile, Angolan striker M’Bala Nzola scored for Cagliari, although his side eventually lost 2-1 to Lazio in Italy.
The weekend’s performances underlined the growing influence of African footballers across Europe’s leading leagues, with Hakimi’s historic hat-trick standing out as the headline achievement.
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