Achraf Hakimi apologises for AFCON ‘towel tactics’ controversy

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has issued an apology following the controversial towel incidents that marred the closing stages of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The incidents, which drew widespread criticism, involved opposing goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali of Nigeria and Édouard Mendy of Senegal during the semifinal and final matches.

Footage from both games showed Moroccan players, team officials, and ball boys repeatedly attempting to remove towels used by the goalkeepers to keep their gloves dry in wet conditions.

The actions sparked confusion and debate, with many interpreting the move as an attempt to disrupt the goalkeepers’ performance.

During the final, played under light rain, cameras captured Moroccan players and stadium staff interfering with towels placed near Mendy’s goal area.

A similar pattern was observed in the semifinal clash against Nigeria, where Nwabali appeared to face the same challenge.

Speaking after Paris Saint-Germain’s 2-0 victory over Liverpool FC in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final, Hakimi acknowledged the controversy and expressed regret.

“I don’t feel proud about the image we gave off with the towels. Even though that happened, the team did well in the competition.

“We showed respect for their opponent in the tournament.”

He added that Morocco maintained respect for their opponents throughout the tournament.

Morocco secured their place in the final after defeating Nigeria 4-2 on penalties following a tense semifinal encounter. The Super Eagles’ Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi both missed their spot-kicks in the shootout.