Brahim Diaz has issued an apology to Morocco fans after his penalty miss in the Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal. The Real Madrid forward attempted a Panenka in the 98th minute, but his weak chip was easily saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, a miss that ultimately cost Morocco the chance to win the match in normal time.
The penalty was awarded following a controversial VAR decision, leading Senegal's players to briefly leave the pitch in protest. After a 17-minute delay, Diaz stepped up but failed to convert, and Senegal went on to win 1-0 in extra time thanks to Pape Gueye's goal. Some fans speculated that Diaz deliberately missed in solidarity with Senegal, but the player denied this in his statement.
Writing on social media, Diaz said: “My heart aches. I dreamed of this title… I fought with everything I had… Yesterday I failed, and I take full responsibility and apologize from the bottom of my heart.” He added that the wound would not heal easily but vowed to continue striving to repay the love and support he has received.
Morocco manager Walid Regragui defended Diaz, suggesting the lengthy delay before the penalty affected his concentration. “He had a lot of time before taking the penalty which must have disturbed him,” Regragui said. “But we can't change what happened.” Reports indicate that some team executives remain furious with the miss.
