Sergio Ramos sends encouraging message to Brahim Diaz after AFCON 2025 final heartbreak

Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos reached out to Moroccan star Brahim Diaz following Morocco’s narrow defeat to Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations final.

Ramos shared a picture of Diaz on Instagram as he received his runner-up medal, writing: “Only those who have the courage to take penalties miss them, Ibrahim. Always hold your head high, my brother. Football always offers opportunities for revenge, and what you gave us is much greater than what was lost today. We will move towards the next challenge with even greater strength! I will always support you.”

The dramatic final saw referee Jean-Jacques Ndala award Morocco a penalty in the final moments of stoppage time after consulting VAR and reviewing the play himself.

The decision sparked protests from Senegal’s players and coaching staff, led by Pape Thiaw, who briefly led the team off the pitch in objection.

After several minutes, Senegal captain Sadio Mane convinced his teammates to return and complete the match. When Diaz stepped up to take the penalty, he executed a Panenka-style shot that was easily caught by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, leaving Morocco just short of the title.