His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Prince Moulay Rachid has met the Moroccan national team following the closure of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament.
The continental showpiece came to an end on Sunday, January 18, 2026, with Senegal emerging as the champions following a 1-0 victory over Morocco after extra-time at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Senegal coach, Pape Thiaw, sparked a controversy after ordering his players to walk off the pitch in protest against a penalty decision, minutes after disallowing a goal for the Taranga Lions.
A section of the players adhered to the coach and left the field, leading to a several-minute stoppage amidst chaos.
But Sadio Mane demonstrated leadership, as he rallied his teammates to return to the pitch for the continuation of the match. Their return paid off, with Pape Gueye netting the match winner after Brahim Diaz had squandered a penalty kick.
King Mohammed VI has, however, met the entire team led by the president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, Fouzi Lekjaa at the Royal Guest Palace in Rabat, expressing gratitude to the team despite missing out on the title.
Other members to have called on King Mohammed VI included Walid Regragui’s led technical team and the players at large.
This gesture reflects King Mohammed VI’s consistent support for football and sports development at large in Morocco.
Prior to meeting the team, King Mohammed VI had sent a congratulatory message to the Atlas Lions right after the final defeat to Senegal, affirming that their outstanding performance at the just ended AFCON.
“On the occasion of your reaching the final of the Africa Cup of Nations, we are pleased to send you, players, coaches, technical, medical and administrative staff and officials of the Moroccan Football Federation, our warmest congratulations on this honorable continental achievement.”
“Through this distinguished journey, you have proven that perseverance, seriousness, and team spirit are the way to achieve accomplishments, and you have presented the world with a model of what Moroccan and African youth can achieve when they are armed with confidence in their talents and abilities.”
“As you have demonstrated, through your composure and honorable heroic performance, the importance of our strategic vision in investing in human capital, and in the Kingdom’s infrastructure and global readiness in anticipation of hosting the 2030 World Cup.”
“As much as we consider our country’s hosting of this distinguished championship, with its befitting quality of organization and warm welcome stemming from the virtues and ancient values of our Moroccan nation, a great sporting achievement, we also consider it a message of hope and confidence from Morocco to its continent, confirming that African genius is capable of excellence and creativity in all fields.”
“We commend with great appreciation the passionate Moroccan fans who supported the team throughout this tournament, with great enthusiasm and confidence, urging you to continue the effort to achieve more accomplishments and honor Moroccan football in various international football forums, with our highest satisfaction.”
