Morocco midfielder Brahim Díaz has issued an emotional apology to the nation’s football fans after missing a crucial penalty in the final minutes of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Senegal on Sunday, a miss that likely cost the Atlas Lions the title. Senegal went on to win the match 1-0 in extra time.
Díaz’s missed penalty in the ninth minute of stoppage time was the culmination of a chaotic end to normal time, which included a controversial VAR decision and a brief walk-off protest by Senegalese players.
The Real Madrid star’s attempt was a Panenka-style shot that was easily saved by Senegal’s goalkeeper Édouard Mendy.
The incident led to widespread criticism and heartbreak among Moroccan supporters, who had dreamed of their first AFCON title in 50 years.
In an extensive and heartfelt statement posted on his Instagram account, Brahim Díaz addressed the fallout and took personal responsibility for the failure.
In his statement, the 25-year-old expressed his heartbreak, acknowledging the support he received and his failure in the final.
“My heart hurts. I dreamed of this title thanks to all the love you gave me, every message, every show of support that made me feel I wasn’t alone. I fought with everything I had, and with my heart above all else,” he wrote.
“Yesterday I failed and I take full responsibility. I offer you my sincere apologies. It will be hard for me to get over this—these wounds do not heal easily, but I will try.
“Not just for myself, but for everyone who believed in me and everyone who suffered with me. I will keep moving forward so that one day I can give back this love and make my Moroccan people proud of me.”
Despite the disappointing conclusion, Díaz had a strong tournament performance, earning the Golden Boot with five goals.
Morocco’s manager, Walid Regragui, supported Díaz, highlighting the intense pressure he faced during the significant delay before taking the penalty.
