Rabat – Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi has spoken about the heated scenes that marked the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Morocco and Senegal.
In an interview with Movistar after PSG’s 2-0 Champions League win over Liverpool, Hakimi admitted the match was tense and difficult. He said he was not proud of the image presented by his team during the incident involving towels on the pitch, which drew criticism.
“There are tough and stressful moments in football,” Hakimi explained. “I am not proud of how we looked in that situation.”
Despite that, Hakimi insisted Morocco’s overall performance in the tournament showed respect for both their opponents and the competition.
The 27-year-old defender hailed the team’s attitude and commitment throughout the campaign, noting that they had carried themselves well on the field.
The Paris Saint‑Germain player also criticized Senegal’s actions during the final, particularly their decision to leave the pitch.
He expressed support for CAF’s ruling that awarded Morocco the title, saying the decision was in line with protecting the integrity of African football. “What happens now is being evaluated,” Hakimi said. “We hope the decision serves the good of football and of Africa.”
Read also: ‘We Are Very Happy’ Hakimi Finally Embraces Morocco’s AFCON Win
Hakimi stressed that Morocco deserved the trophy, not only because of their performances but also because of the way the final ended. “We hope to win because we earned it,” he added. “You cannot leave the pitch in that manner.”
The final marked chaotic events after Senegal’s walk-off from the pitch, resulting in a lengthy stoppage time.
The final also marked vandalism acts by some Senegalese fans who attempted to storm the pitch and used seats as weapons against security guards.
In March, CAF’s Appeal Board awarded the AFCON final to Morocco, acknowledging Senegal had breached the tournament’s regulations.
Senegal appealed the decision, taking the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Morocco, however, is determined that its case is strong, citing evidence documented during the final.
