Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has rejected the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, insisting Morocco did not deserve it after defeat.
Hakimi said neither he nor teammates should accept the trophy, regardless of any decision by Confederation of African Football (CAF).
“My mum told me to reject the AFCON trophy. I’m officially rejecting it and hope my teammates do same. We had a chance but failed to win,” the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) defender said on Friday.
Hakimi acknowledged the result, stressing Senegal were worthy winners and cautioning against actions that could undermine their achievement.
“That’s football, sometimes you win and lose. Senegal beat us fairly and deserved it. It will be unfair to ruin their joy after the hardwork,” Hakimi said.
The Morocco defender added that he respects CAF’s position but cannot accept a title he believes Morocco did not earn on the pitch.
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“I respect the CAF decision but I’m officially rejecting the trophy. I didn’t win 2025 AFCON. Congratulations to Senegal once again,” Hakimi stated.
Morocco were among favourites but fell short, while Senegal’s triumph was widely viewed as deserved after their performance.
On March 17, 2026, CAF Appeal Board ruled for Morocco, citing Senegal’s walk-off as forfeiture under regulations, overturning the 1–0 result to 3–0.
The Senegalese Football Federation said it will appeal the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
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