Captain of Morocco national football team, Achraf Hakimi, has rejected the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations 2025 title, insisting Morocco did not deserve it after defeat.
The Paris Saint-Germain defender said neither he nor teammates should accept the trophy, regardless of any decision by the Confederation of African Football.
His comments followed Moroccoโs loss to Senegal national football team in the tournament final.
โMy mum told me to reject the AFCON trophy. Iโm officially rejecting it and hope my teammates do same. We had a chance but failed to win,โ Mr Hakimi said.
He acknowledged the result, stressing Senegal were worthy winners and cautioning against actions that could undermine their achievement.
โThatโs football, sometimes you win and lose. Senegal beat us fairly and deserved it. It will be unfair to ruin their joy after the hardwork,โ he said.
Mr Hakimi added he respects CAFโs position but cannot accept a title he believes Morocco did not earn on the pitch.
โI respect the CAF decision but Iโm officially rejecting the trophy. I didnโt win 2025 AFCON. Congratulations to Senegal once again,โ he said.
The stance highlights a rare moment in football, with a player declining recognition in favour of sporting integrity.
Morocco were among favourites but fell short, while Senegalโs triumph was widely viewed as deserved after their performance.
On March 17, 2026, CAF Appeal Board ruled in favour of Morocco, citing Senegalโs walk-off as forfeiture under regulations, overturning the 1โ0 result to 3โ0.
The Senegalese Football Federation said it would appeal the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport. (NAN)
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