Morocco’s head coach, Walid Regragui, addressed the loss in the 2025 AFCON final, extending congratulations to Senegal while simultaneously lamenting what he perceived as a disappointing display of African football and an unhealthy atmosphere surrounding the tournament. Senegal secured the victory over Morocco with a narrow 1-0 scoreline in a highly dramatic encounter.
Following the game, Walid Regragui voiced his deep disappointment, mirroring the sentiment shared by every Moroccan supporter. He reflected that when a penalty was awarded to Morocco in the final minute of stoppage time, victory seemed imminent. Yet, ultimately, football dealt them a harsh blow, which he found particularly painful. Brahim Diaz unfortunately failed to convert the opportunity, striking the ball directly into the opposing goalkeeper’s gloves.
Regragui offered congratulations to Senegal on their triumph, but concurrently remarked that the quality exhibited by African football in this particular match was disheartening. He stressed that the overall climate surrounding the tournament had been unhealthy from the outset, an aggravating circumstance.
“We extend our congratulations to Senegal, even though the image of African football we put forward today is disappointing,” RMC Sport quoted Regragui as saying.
Despite these criticisms, the Moroccan tactician reiterated his congratulations to the opponents, acknowledging their achievement, and assured that his squad would persist in their efforts and return with greater strength.
It is worth recalling that Senegal claimed the Africa Cup of Nations title for the second time in the competition’s history.
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