CAF Verdict: Morocco Captain Hakimi Rejects AFCON Title, Backs Senegal

CAF Verdict: Morocco Captain Hakimi Rejects AFCON Title, Backs Senegal

Captain of the Morocco national team, Achraf Hakimi, has publicly rejected the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title awarded to his side, insisting the team did not earn it on the pitch.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) had overturned the tournament’s final result following a disciplinary decision involving Senegal, awarding Morocco a 3-0 victory after a walk-off incident.

However, Hakimi, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain, said he could not accept the title under such circumstances, describing Senegal as the rightful winners based on the match outcome.

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

He acknowledged the realities of football, stressing that defeat must be accepted when it occurs.

“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 hard work,” Hakimi added.

While expressing respect for CAF’s ruling, the defender maintained that personal integrity would not allow him to claim a title he did not win competitively.

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

Hakimi’s position has drawn attention across the football world, with many describing it as a rare show of sportsmanship in modern football.

Morocco had entered the tournament as one of the favourites but fell short in the final, while Senegal’s performance had been widely praised prior to the controversy.

The Senegalese Football Federation has since indicated plans to challenge CAF’s decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, setting the stage for a potential legal battle over the disputed title.