Rabat – Moroccan midfielder Bilal El Khannous shared an emotional message after Morocco’s loss to Senegal in the AFCON 2025 final.
He admitted that rewatching the decisive moments of the match is difficult, but insisted the experience will push the team to come back stronger.
On Instagram, El Khannous wrote: “It is hard to find the words in such moments. I want to thank His Majesty for the great work done over the years for Moroccan football, and for organizing this edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, which was the most beautiful in the history of the competition. It was a great honor and pride to defend my country’s colors during this tournament.”
The 21-year-old continued: “We lived a whole month together, full of wonderful moments, like one family. Thanks to the coach, his staff, and all the silent soldiers who worked with us. We gave everything we had until the last minute.”
El Khannous closed his message with determination: “Watching the clips is painful, of course, but it will make us stronger and more determined in the future. Thank you to all Moroccans for your support throughout the competition. You carried us from the beginning to the end. I am forever proud to be Moroccan and proud to wear my country’s colors. God, Homeland, King… Dima Maghrib.”
Morocco’s defeat came after a dramatic final in Rabat. Morocco were given a penalty after VAR confirmed a foul on Brahim Diaz.
The decision sparked anger from Senegal’s players and staff, who surrounded the referee and even moved toward the tunnel in protest.
As they unlawfully delayed the match, tension inside the stadium grew, with Senegalese fans hitting stadium staff and threatening to storm the pitch.
Amid the chaos, Sadio Mane stepped in, urging his teammates to return and continue the game. When play resumed, Diaz took the penalty, but Edouard Mendy saved it, keeping the score level and sending the match into extra time.
The chaos also drew shock and condemnation from local and international observers for the poor conduct shown by both the Senegalese team and fans. Both the CAF and FIFA have already released statements criticizing the behavior and calling it shameful to African football.