Morocco star Achraf Hakimi has singled goalkeeper Yassine Bounou for praise following the sides’ penalty shootouts victory over Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Atlas Lions are in the final of the continental showpiece after triumphing over the Super Eagles 4-2 on penalties following a pulsating goalless draw in both regular and extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium on Wednesday night.
Morocco has now set up a fierce final clash against Senegal, who narrowly defeated Egypt. The high-staked clash has been scheduled for Sunday, January 18, 2026, with victory crucial to securing the title.
Bounou saved two penalty kicks to lead Morocco to the final for the first time since 2004, and their third time in its history after 1988.
However, Hakimi has heaped praise on Bounou, stressing they knew his capabilities in penalty kicks.
“We knew that if we reached penalty kicks we had the best goalkeeper for that and we are very happy to have him with us.”
“We thank the Moroccan fans who supported and encouraged us in all the matches since the start of the tournament.”
“We give our all on the pitch, and today we lived up to our responsibilities and delivered a great performance.”
“We will play in the final that has been absent from Morocco for a long time, and we dedicate the qualification to King Mohammed VI.”
Morocco and Senegal have won the continental showpiece just once in their football history and will be seeking for their second triumph in the high-stake final.
