I made a mistake – Morocco’s Ilyas Bensghir apologises after liking Senegal’s AFCON celebration posts

Morocco international Ilyas Bensghir has moved swiftly to address a growing controversy after his social media activity sparked debate among fans across Morocco.

Bensghir found himself at the centre of criticism after liking celebratory posts by Senegal players following their recent celebrations in France. The action, though seemingly minor, triggered backlash from sections of the public who questioned his intentions and loyalty.

Bensghir has, however, acknowledged the incident and took full responsibility for his actions. He admitted that the gesture was inappropriate and not aligned with the expectations of supporters.

According to his statement, the “like” was an impulsive reaction directed at someone he knows personally, rather than a deliberate or symbolic act. He explained that once he realized the potential implications, he immediately removed the interaction in an attempt to limit any misunderstanding.

The midfielder also sought to reaffirm his deep connection to his country, stressing that representing Morocco is not a casual choice but a lifelong commitment. He emphasized his pride in wearing the national jersey, underlining that his decision to play for Morocco is rooted in conviction and identity.

Bensghir’s apology comes at a sensitive moment in his career, as public perception plays a significant role in shaping the relationship between players and fans. In modern football, even small social media actions can carry significant weight, and this incident highlights how quickly narratives can develop online.

Despite the controversy, the tone of his message was one of accountability and reconciliation. Bensghir expressed regret over the situation and extended a sincere apology to Moroccan supporters, urging them to understand his intentions and accept his explanation.

More importantly, he made it clear that his focus is now firmly on football. The player stated his desire to move past the incident and return to performing on the pitch, where he hopes to rebuild trust and silence critics through his performances.

As the dust begins to settle, Bensghir will now look to let his football do the talking—knowing that consistent displays on the field remain the most powerful way to win back the support of the fans.