Gianni Infantino was present in Rabat to watch the AFCON final
FIFA President Gianni Infantino appeared shocked when Brahim Díaz missed a last-minute Panenka penalty in Morocco’s defeat to Senegal in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
Ismaila Sarr’s goal was disallowed after the referee ruled that there had been a foul on Achraf Hakimi prior to the cross that led to the goal.
In a dramatic turn of events, the host nation was awarded a penalty in the dying minutes of added time when Brahim Díaz was pulled down in the box by a Senegalese defender.
Senegal defeat hosts Morocco to win 2025 AFCON
Before the spot-kick, Senegalese players were furious with the decision and attempted to boycott the match by staging a walk-off, but Sadio Mané intervened and convinced his teammates to return to the field.
Real Madrid forward Brahim Díaz missed the penalty, as his Panenka attempt was easily saved by Édouard Mendy, sending the game into extra time.
During the penalty, Infantino was seated in the VIP section with other dignitaries.
He appeared calm before the kick, but after the miss, the FIFA president maintained a steady expression and covered his mouth with his hand for some time.
He later adjusted himself in his seat, straightening his tie, in what appeared to be a gesture of disappointment.
Senegal have now won their second Africa Cup of Nations trophy after beating Morocco 1-0 in extra time on Sunday, January 18, 2026, in Rabat.
Watch his reaction below:
FIFA president’s reaction when Morocco’s Brahim Díaz missed the penalty against Senegal in the AFCON finals. pic.twitter.com/kO31l0GxDb
— Typical African (@Joe__Bassey) January 19, 2026
SB/JE
Meanwhile, watch Ghanaians rate Daniel Laryea’s performance at AFCON.
