‘Mum told me to do so’ – Morocco captain rejects AFCON title, backs Senegal

 

Captain of the Morocco national football team, Achraf Hakimi, has turned down the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, maintaining that Morocco did not merit the honour following their defeat.

The Paris Saint-Germain defender stated that neither he nor his teammates should accept the trophy, irrespective of any ruling by the Confederation of African Football.

Hakimi’s reaction comes after Morocco’s loss to the Senegal national football team in the tournament’s final.

“My mum told me to reject the AFCON trophy. I’m officially rejecting it and hope my teammates do same. We had a chance but failed to win,” Hakimi said.

He accepted the outcome of the match, emphasising that Senegal deserved their victory and warning against any move that could diminish their success.

“That’s football, sometimes you win and lose. Senegal beat us fairly and deserved it. It will be unfair to ruin their joy after the hardwork,” he said.

While acknowledging CAF’s decision, Hakimi reiterated his refusal to accept a title he believes Morocco did not win on the field of play.

“I respect the CAF decision but I’m officially rejecting the trophy. I didn’t win 2025 AFCON. Congratulations to Senegal once again,” he said.

The development marks an unusual episode in football, as a player publicly declines a major title in the interest of sporting integrity.

Morocco had entered the competition as one of the favourites but were ultimately defeated, while Senegal’s performance earned widespread recognition as deserving champions.

On March 17, 2026, the CAF Appeal Board ruled in favour of Morocco, citing Senegal’s walk-off as a forfeiture under tournament regulations and overturning the 1–0 result to 3–0.

The Senegalese Football Federation has announced plans to challenge the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.