When a Panenka Miss Hits Hard: Enrique Defends Brahim Diaz as Real Madrid Eyes Villarreal
23 January 2026
Panenka Miss and the Night That Went to Extra Time
It might be Ibrahim Diaz's toughest week yet. On Sunday, he had a chance to end a 50-year drought tied to Morocco’s Africa Cup of Nations history, but his Panenka penalty fell short, inviting a wave of scrutiny.
Extra Time, Defeat, and a Frustrating Night
The game stretched into extra time after a lengthy stoppage before the penalty, which was saved by Edouard Mendy. Diaz was taken off early in extra time, and Senegal ultimately triumphed, delivering a painful defeat to the Atlas Lions.
Enrique’s Defense and the Road Ahead
Luis Enrique, the Paris Saint‑Germain coach, isn’t popular at the Bernabéu for his Barcelona past, but he defended Diaz when questioned earlier in the week, according to AS.
Diaz’s Apology and Madrid’s Backing
“Today we spoke about this goal. Everyone is talking about Brahim. But I remember Zidane. Zidane, the god of football. His World Cup final goal. I also remember Sergio Ramos, who scored a Panenka in an important match. Many players do this. When you score these penalties, everyone claps and no one says a word. And when you miss, the criticism pours in.”
“He’s a great player. I know him. I coached him in a match for the national team. He’s exceptional and a wonderful person. This is unfair. I understand it’s hard to accept. It’s sport. You must know how to win and lose. This is natural. Winning or losing isn’t the end of the world. The most important are the values we pass to the youth. He’s not a killer or a bad person. He deserves respect. For now, the pressure is high.”
After the miss, Diaz issued a moving apology to the fans and the Moroccan people. His coach Álvaro Arbeloa and many Real Madrid teammates pledged their support upon his return, expected Thursday, with Diaz poised to be available for the Madrid derby against Villarreal on Saturday.
Looking Forward
With Real Madrid aiming to rebound, Diaz’s next chance comes against Villarreal as the season rolls on. The spotlight remains bright, but so does the support from teammates and coaches who know football is a game of highs, lows, and always-on drama. And yes, the league still loves a plot twist—this saga isn’t over yet.
Punchline 1: If you panenka and miss, at least you gave the crowd a suspense arc—plot twist included, refunds not guaranteed.
Punchline 2: In football, pressure is just glory with a loudspeaker—turn it up, or turn it off, but the game still goes on.
