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Rabat—Following one of the most dramatic and controversial AFCON finals in recent memory, Moroccan midfielder Neil El Aynaoui adopted a balanced approach.
He used a televised statement during the national team’s official reception at the Guest Palace by Prince Moulay Rachid to thank the fans for their unwavering backing throughout the tournament and the frustrating, confusing final, while also urging the nation to look ahead.
“We thank the Moroccan public for their support for us in this tournament, and throughout these years. Now, we must focus on the future and move past this,” El Aynaoui said.
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Morocco finished as runners-up in the 2025 AFCON final, losing 1-0 to Senegal after extra time in a match completely overshadowed by controversy. The game on Sunday night was marred by a lengthy stoppage, on-pitch protests, and intense post-match debate, leaving players and fans alike reeling with high emotions long after the final whistle blew.
In a scary moment at the 65th minute that briefly silenced the stadium, El Aynaoui scared everyone watching. The Moroccan midfielder went up for a header in the penalty area and collided mid-air with a Senegalese player, leaving him bloodied and sparking immediate concern among fans.
After receiving medical treatment and having his head heavily bandaged, the 24-year-old chose to stay in the game. His resilience drew applause from the Rabat crowd.
Neil El Aynaoui has been absolutely brilliant throughout the 2025 AFCON. He showed calm composure and a relentless work rate.
He dictated games, expertly broke up opposition attacks, and drove Morocco forward with intelligence and precision. Time and again, he imposed his will on the match, whether in protecting the defense, linking up play, or stepping forward into attack when needed.
This AFCON cemented his reputation as Morocco’s true pivot and one of the tournament’s revelation players. Every single match highlighted his growth, and in both the semi-final and the final, he proved he can handle major pressure and was absolutely central to everything Morocco achieved on the field.
