Hakimi on AFCON title: “Even if it happened in this way, we accept it, we are very happy”

Achraf Hakimi, captain of the Morocco national team, has expressed his delight after being awarded the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title following a controversial decision involving Senegal national team.

The Confederation of African Football ruled that Senegal forfeited the final after a temporary withdrawal from the pitch during the decisive match against Morocco. As a result, the title was officially awarded to the Atlas Lions.

Senegal’s football federation has since appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, seeking to overturn the ruling.

Speaking to The Bridge, Hakimi said about winning the AFCON: Yes, even if it happened in this way, we accept it. We are very happy. I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time.”

Despite CAF’s verdict, Senegal went on to celebrate the title in Paris during the international break, on the sidelines of a friendly match against Peru, where they secured a 2-0 victory.

The situation remains under review pending the final decision from CAS, leaving one of African football’s biggest titles surrounded by uncertainty.

⚽ Follow Pan-Africa Football across platforms for real-time news and stories.