Morocco’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign concluded on a bitter-sweet note as the Atlas Lions fell just short of continental glory, losing 1-0 to Senegal in the final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The defining moment came in stoppage time when Real Madrid forward Brahim Díaz missed a decisive penalty, a miss that ultimately denied Morocco a second AFCON title in their history.
Despite the heartbreak, Díaz’s tournament performance was widely recognised. He scored five goals and claimed the Golden Boot, with FIFA president Gianni Infantino presenting the award in acknowledgment of his technical quality and attacking influence.
Yet the missed penalty left a lingering shadow, transforming his individual triumph into a bittersweet milestone for both him and the Moroccan fans.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bono was another standout, earning the Best Goalkeeper award after conceding just two goals during the competition, including one in the final.
Bono received his accolade from Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, a testament to his pivotal role in Morocco’s run to the final.
In addition, the Moroccan team was awarded the Fair Play trophy, recognising their discipline and sportsmanship throughout a tournament marked by high-pressure encounters and intense scrutiny.
While Morocco’s individual honours were a source of pride, the title ultimately eluded them. Senegalese star Sadio Mané claimed the Player of the Tournament award, having led his team to victory with consistent performances.
At the closing ceremony, CAF president Patrice Motsepe handed the confederation flag to the hosts of the 2027 edition: Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
For Morocco, the 2025 AFCON will be remembered as a campaign of contrasts – exceptional individual displays and fair-play recognition paired with the bitter disappointment of a lost final.
The tournament offered both a celebration of achievement and a reminder of how fine margins can define football history.
