Brahim Díaz has apologised to Moroccans
Moroccan winger Brahim Díaz has issued a heartfelt apology to his countrymen following his costly missed penalty in the dramatic 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
With Morocco chasing their first AFCON title in 50 years on home soil, Díaz was presented with a golden opportunity in stoppage time: a penalty that could have won the match for the Atlas Lions.
Opting for a delicate Panenka, the 26-year-old saw his shot comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, sending the game into extra time.
Senegal after surviving the penalty scare scored the decisive goal and won the game, leaving Morocco to rue what might have been.
Brahim Díaz’s Panenka Miss: Intentional or unintentional?
In an emotional Instagram post, Díaz reflected on the moment and the weight of his miss.
“My soul hurts. I dreamed of this title thanks to all the love you have given me, to every message, to every sign of support that made me feel that I was not alone. I fought with everything I had, with my heart above all else.”
He further revealed that he has taken responsibility for the missed opportunity.
“Yesterday I failed and I take full responsibility and I apologise with all my heart. It will be difficult for me to recover, because this wound does not heal easily, but I will try. Not for me, but for all those who believed in me and for all those who suffered with me,” he added.
Díaz concluded with a message of determination.
“I will keep going until one day I can return all this love and be the pride for my Moroccan people,” he said.
FKA/JE
