The severe earthquake in Morocco with hundreds of dead also shocks the country’s footballers. Numerous players are calling for support. The ball should rest for the time being.

Former Bundesliga professional Achraf Hakimi has called for solidarity after the devastating earthquake in his home country Morocco and expressed his sympathy for the victims. “We are experiencing a difficult moment for our compatriots. It’s time to help each other to save as many lives as possible,” the 24-year-old Moroccan international wrote on Instagram on Saturday. A World Cup fourth-placed team’s qualifying match against Liberia scheduled for the evening was cancelled.

France superstar Kylian Mbappé shared the news of his Paris clubmate with his 108 million followers on Instagram. There were also reactions from the Bundesliga. “We are deeply saddened by the images and news of the devastating earthquake in Morocco. The Union family’s thoughts are with those affected and all the brave helpers on the ground,” said 1. FC Union Berlin on X (formerly Twitter).

The earthquake killed hundreds of people in Morocco on Saturday night and caused severe damage. “My condolences go out to all those who have lost someone they love,” wrote ex-Dortmund player Hakimi. Other national players also spoke out on Instagram, calling for support.

Bayern professional Noussair Mazraoui shared photos and a video of the quake in his Instagram story and wrote: “Pray for Morocco”. Ex-Schalker Amine Harit sent “thoughts and prayers to the families and regions most affected by this tragedy”. The midfielder wrote on Instagram: “A difficult night and an even more difficult awakening. We are all very shocked. Let’s be united and strong.”

The country’s football federation also offered its deepest condolences to those affected. The Africa Cup qualifier against Liberia in Agadir scheduled for this evening has been cancelled. It will be rescheduled for a later date, they said.