The AFCON 2025 final left a deep wound in Morocco. Losing at home, and in the dramatic way it happened against Senegal, made the blow even harder to accept. In the midst of that heavy atmosphere, Achraf Hakimi, captain of the national team and star of Paris Saint-Germain, took a few days to process everything before finally speaking out.

The right back had been poised to play a leading role on the night. He was involved in one of the most controversial moments of the match, drawing the foul that led to a late Senegal goal being ruled out. Many expected Hakimi to step up for the decisive penalty, but instead it was Brahim Díaz, Morocco’s standout performer of the tournament, who took responsibility. The outcome is now part of a painful chapter that still lingers.

A Message Straight From the Heart

Rather than fueling the debate, Hakimi chose a different path. Through his social media channels, the PSG defender shared a statement that stood out for its calm and gratitude. “After very difficult days, trying to process everything that happened, I felt the need to speak from the heart,” he wrote, making it clear that he was speaking first and foremost as a Moroccan.

In his message, Hakimi thanked the authorities who made it possible for the tournament to be held in Morocco, as well as the support of federation president Fouzi Lekjaa. But the heart of his words was directed toward the fans.

The Moroccan People and a Team That Inspires

For Hakimi, the supporters were the true driving force behind the team’s run. “You were our twelfth man,” he said, emphasizing how the crowd carried the squad through every emotional high and low. That bond between the team and the nation, in his eyes, was one of the competition’s greatest achievements, regardless of the final result.

He also expressed heartfelt appreciation for head coach Walid Regragui and his teammates, highlighting the 35 days of unity, sacrifice, and discipline that defined their journey. To him, that group did more than compete—it showed the world that Morocco is a growing football power capable of inspiring far beyond the pitch.

Rising Above the Controversy

During the final, Hakimi found himself at the center of several heated moments, from viral gestures to contentious on-field actions. Still, he made a conscious choice not to address any of that. Instead, he focused on turning disappointment into a message of unity and pride.

The defeat will continue to sting, but Achraf Hakimi’s words offered a different perspective. Rather than bitterness, he highlighted a larger truth: Morocco is no longer just an occasional contender, but a respected and admired force in African and global football.

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