Everton and Senegal forward Iliman Ndiaye has criticised Morocco star Brahim Diaz following his failed Panenka penalty during the dramatic 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, describing the attempt as potentially “disrespectful” at a decisive moment of the contest.
The controversial incident unfolded during Senegal’s 1-0 victory over Morocco in Rabat on January 18, a result that secured the West African nation’s second continental crown while extending Morocco’s 50-year wait for the title.
The final was overshadowed by high tension late in regulation time when Morocco were awarded a penalty with just two minutes of added time remaining.
Senegal’s players fiercely protested the decision and even threatened to abandon the match before eventually allowing proceedings to continue. Diaz, who had been Morocco’s standout performer throughout the tournament with five goals in seven matches, stepped forward to take the crucial spot-kick.
The Real Madrid attacker attempted an audacious Panenka, but his effort was comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, shifting momentum dramatically.
Senegal capitalised during extra time when Pape Gueye struck the winner to seal a historic triumph. Reflecting on the moment, Ndiaye admitted the Senegal squad sensed an opportunity once Diaz opted for the risky technique.
“We were just saying he was going to miss,” Ndiaye said. “I was praying, saying, ‘He’s going to miss, he’s going to miss.’”
The forward suggested the attempt carried an element of unnecessary showmanship given the magnitude of the occasion.
“I felt there was a bit of disrespect. I’m not saying he meant to disrespect us, but it was either that, or he wanted to act like a star after everything that had just happened,” Ndiaye added. “They hadn’t won it in so many years, and all you had to do was take your chance and score… I’m glad he did. I think after that, we knew we were going to win.”
The heated finale also resulted in disciplinary consequences, with Confederation of African Football authorities sanctioning Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw with a five-match ban, while Ndiaye and teammate Ismaila Sarr received two-match suspensions for unsporting conduct.
Ndiaye acknowledged the emotional turmoil surrounding Senegal’s protest but emphasised team unity during the chaotic closing stages.
“We were completely beside ourselves. It’s the final and we’re on the verge of losing,” he said. “Sadio said: ‘Get back on the pitch and play the match.’”
Despite the sanctions, Senegal’s government has pledged full support for the team’s leadership and suspended players following their controversial but victorious AFCON campaign.
