Achraf Hakimi reveals his mother advised him against winning the Africa Cup of Nations, as he congratulates Senegal on their triumph

Achraf Hakimi, the captain of Morocco's national football team, has made it clear that he will not accept the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, citing his team's defeat as the reason they do not deserve it.

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The Paris Saint-Germain defender's comments came after Morocco lost to the Senegal national football team in the tournament final, with Hakimi stating that neither he nor his teammates should accept the trophy, regardless of the Confederation of African Football's decision.

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Hakimi's decision was influenced by his mother, who advised him to reject the AFCON trophy, and he has officially rejected it, hoping his teammates will do the same, as they had the chance to win but failed to do so.

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He acknowledged the outcome of the game, recognizing that Senegal were worthy winners and warning against any actions that could tarnish their achievement, saying that sometimes you win and lose in football.

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Hakimi emphasized that Senegal beat Morocco fairly and deserved the title, and it would be unfair to undermine their joy after their hard work, showcasing his commitment to sporting integrity.

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Despite respecting the CAF's position, Hakimi has officially rejected the trophy, stating that he did not win the 2025 AFCON and congratulating Senegal once again on their victory.

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This stance marks a rare moment in football, where a player prioritizes sporting integrity over recognition, with Morocco being among the favorites but falling short, while Senegal's triumph was widely seen as deserved.

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On March 17, 2026, the CAF Appeal Board ruled in favor of Morocco, citing Senegal's walk-off as forfeiture under regulations, overturning the 1–0 result to 3–0, a decision that the Senegalese Football Federation plans to appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.