Diaz Rebounds: Morocco Star Bounces Back from Panenka Drama Ahead of Benfica Clash
26 January 2026
Diaz rebounds from Panenka setback
Morocco star Ibrahim Diaz trains with teammates ahead of Benfica.
Madrid's path to the last 16
The Moroccan ace Ibrahim Diaz has moved on from the Panenka-style penalty miss in the Africa Cup final.
Diaz missed the late spot-kick in the final against Senegal when the scoreline pointed to a draw.
Subsequently, Senegal prevailed in extra time to lift the title.
According to The Athletic, Madrid insiders confirmed Diaz has fully recovered from the incident.
Real Madrid travel to Benfica on Wednesday for the eighth and final matchday of the 2025-26 Champions League at the Estádio da Luz.
The holders sit third on 15 points, needing a win to seal direct last-16 football; a draw could suffice on goal difference.
Punchline 1: Diaz's rebound is sharper than my New Year's resolutions.
Punchline 2: If Diaz can time a Panenka, maybe I can time my snooze button to wake up on time.
