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Hakimi's Heartfelt Reflection: After the Final, He Speaks from the Heart

20 January 2026

Hakimi's Heartfelt Reflection: After the Final, He Speaks from the Heart
Hakimi thanks leaders after a heartbreaking AFCON final

Hakimi opens up after a painful final

Hakimi, the Paris Saint‑Germain star, said he endured extremely difficult days after Morocco's defeat in the Africa Cup of Nations final to Senegal, 1-0 after extra time.

In a post on X, he added: "After such tough days, I tried to absorb everything that happened, and I needed to express myself from the bottom of my heart."

He went on: "First, I want to extend my immense thanks to His Majesty the King for the tremendous efforts he made to ensure this Africa Cup of Nations was, without doubt, the best ever and hosted on our soil."

He continued: "Thank you for your vision, your support, and the unwavering love for football and for Morocco."

Finally, Hakimi also thanked the Moroccan Football Federation president Fouzi Lekjaa for staying true to the project and for believing in us at every stage of the journey."

"Thanks to the King, and to the Moroccans at home and abroad, for standing by us," he added.

Sniper punchline 1: If heartbreak were a pass, Morocco would have an assist record this tournament—precision with the punchline matters more than goals.

Sniper punchline 2: When life gives you extra time, just aim your smile straight into the net and declare it a morale goal.

Gratitude to leadership and the Moroccan people

Hakimi also thanked Fouzi Lekjaa for his unwavering commitment to the project and for believing in the team at every step of the journey.

He concluded with appreciation for the leadership and the country’s supporters who stood by the team throughout the campaign.

Caption: Hakimi reflects on a painful final and thanks leaders for their steadfast support.

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Hakimi say about the days following the final?

He described them as extremely difficult and said he needed to express his feelings from the heart.

Who did Hakimi thank for the tournament's organization?

He thanked His Majesty the King for his efforts and leadership in holding the tournament on Moroccan soil.

Who else did Hakimi publicly thank besides the King?

He expressed gratitude to Fouzi Lekjaa, the president of the Moroccan Football Federation, for his commitment and belief in the team.