When Extra Time Speaks Louder Than Dreams: Diaz's Heartfelt AFCON 2025 Note to Morocco
19 January 2026
Match Recap
Morocco’s Ibrahim Diaz voiced deep sorrow after Senegal edged Morocco 1-0 to win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Diaz missed a Panenka penalty in the 114th minute as the score remained tied, denying the Atlas Lions a late winner, while Babay Jay struck for Senegal in the 94th minute of the first extra period.
The Real Madrid forward posted an apology on Instagram: “My soul hurts. I dreamed of this title thanks to all the love you gave me, every message, every show of support made me feel I wasn’t alone. I fought with all I had, with my heart first.”
“I failed yesterday, and I take full responsibility, and I apologize from the bottom of my heart.”
Diaz added: “It will be hard to rise because this wound won’t heal easily, but I’ll try. Not for me, but for everyone who believed in me and suffered with me.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to move forward “to one day repay all this love and be a source of pride for the Moroccan people. Forever Morocco.” Diaz finished as AFCON 2025’s top scorer with five goals, earning the Golden Boot.
Punchlines: “If penalties were a lottery, Diaz drew the short straw; at least the trophy has longer legs.” “When life gives you extra time, pretend you’re a Panenka expert—then still miss, just with more style.”
