‘He is a legend’ – France players pay tribute to Morocco goalkeeper Bono

Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou won praise from France’s players after producing another outstanding display despite the Atlas Lions’ 2-0 defeat in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Africa’s last remaining representatives were eliminated by France, but Bounou once again underlined his reputation as one of the world’s leading goalkeepers with a string of crucial saves, including a first-half penalty stop from Kylian Mbappé.

Bono shines despite Morocco’s exit

France booked their place in the World Cup semi-finals with a comfortable victory, yet Bounou ensured the scoreline remained respectable after repeatedly frustrating the French attack.

The 35-year-old’s standout moment came in the 25th minute when he denied Mbappé from the penalty spot before producing several more important saves to keep Morocco in the contest for as long as possible.

His performance drew widespread admiration from members of the France squad after the final whistle.

Koundé: ‘He is a legend’

France defender Jules Koundé, who spent three seasons alongside Bounou at Sevilla, was among the first to pay tribute to his former teammate.

“He is a great goalkeeper, and a great person too, really. I spent three seasons with him at Sevilla, and he was already a top-class goalkeeper.”

Koundé also praised the Moroccan international’s remarkable journey and the impact he has had for both club and country.

“As for his career and everything he has done for football, let’s just say he came into the spotlight rather late with Sevilla when he was 28, but what he did for Morocco was great and very impactful. He is a legend and a great goalkeeper, and above all, I remember his human side; he is a gem and a wonderful person, and I always wish him the best.”

Maignan applauds fellow goalkeeper

France goalkeeper Mike Maignan also hailed Bounou’s display, saying he was not surprised by the level the Moroccan produced on football’s biggest stage.

“His performance tonight? Honestly, I am not at all surprised by his level. He is an elite goalkeeper and has always been present at every stage thanks to what he offers.”

Maignan revealed France expected a difficult evening against Bounou and said the pair shared a moment of mutual respect after the match.

“Before the match, we knew things wouldn’t be easy against him, and he proved that again (laughs). All respect and appreciation to him. We exchanged greetings after the match, and honestly, I tip my hat to him in respect and appreciation for his performance.”

Although Morocco’s World Cup campaign ended in the quarter-finals, Bounou leaves the tournament having once again enhanced his reputation, with praise from opponents adding to recognition earned during another memorable run by the Atlas Lions.