19.01.2026 19:51
Moroccan star Brahim Diaz, who failed to convert a penalty in the 90+24th minute of the Africa Cup Final against Senegal, broke his silence after the missed championship. Apologizing to his fans, Diaz said, "I am in a lot of pain. I had dreamed of this cup. All the love you gave me, every message, and every support made me feel that I was not alone. I sincerely apologize."
In the final of the Africa Cup of Nations, which the whole world turned its eyes to, Senegal faced Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
MISSSED PENALTY IN 90+24, CHAMPIONSHIP SLIPPED AWAY
While the first half of the match ended goalless, Senegal withdrew from the field after a penalty decision awarded to Morocco in the 90+8th minute. As the minutes progressed, Senegal returned to the field, but in the 90+24th minute, Brahim Diaz missed the penalty, and the match ended in a goalless draw. The match proceeded to extra time. In the 94th minute, Gueye scored, putting Senegal ahead 1-0. As no further goals were scored in the following minutes, Senegal became the champion.
BRAHIM DIAZ APOLOGIZED TO THE MOROCCAN PEOPLE
After missing the penalty, Brahim Diaz, who experienced great disappointment, made a post on his social media account apologizing to the Moroccan people. Diaz, who became the top scorer of the tournament with 5 goals, expressed that he was in a lot of pain.
Here is Brahim Diaz's statement:
"I AM IN A LOT OF PAIN"
"I am in a lot of pain.
I had dreamed of this cup. All the love you gave me, every message, and every support made me feel that I was not alone. I fought with everything I have, with my heart above all.
Yesterday I made a mistake, and I take full responsibility; I apologize with all my heart. It will take time for me to recover because this wound does not heal easily, but I will try. I will do this not for myself, but for everyone who believes in me and suffers with me.
One day, I will continue on my path to be able to give back this love and to be a source of pride for the Moroccan people."