Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou breathes sigh of relief as CAF awards Atlas Lions AFCON 2025 title

Morocco international Yassine Bounou has expressed profound relief and joy following the ruling by the Appeal Committee of the Confederation of African Football, which officially recognized Morocco as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations champions over Senegal.

Bounou, who plies his trade for Al Hilal shared his emotions after featuring in the semi-final of the Saudi Arabian King’s Cup, acknowledging the personal and national relief that accompanied the long-awaited decision.

“This decision came late, but the feeling of happiness is indescribable. As a Moroccan and a player for the national team, I went through those difficult times, and this is the least we deserved,” Bounou told reporters.

The saga has been one of the most controversial in recent African football history, with Senegal initially celebrated as winners before the CAF Appeal Committee overturned the result. Bounou, who has been a cornerstone of Morocco’s national team, did not shy away from expressing his pride, emphasizing that the title rightfully belongs to Morocco.

For the goalkeeper, the ruling closes a turbulent chapter that has been emotionally taxing for both him and his teammates. The Moroccan squad now moves forward with renewed morale, celebrating a victory that many supporters and players alike feel has been hard-earned.

Bounou’s candid remarks reflect the intensity of the saga and the personal relief felt by those directly involved, marking a significant moment in Moroccan football history.

This triumph, albeit controversial, cements Morocco’s status as African champions and provides a boost for the national team as they prepare for future continental and international competitions.