Morocco midfielder El Khannous yet to recover from AFCON shock

Morocco midfielder Bilal El Khannous is yet to get over the shock of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations loss to Senegal last Sunday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

The hosts were put at an advantage to claim their second Africa Cup of Nations trophy but Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz shot a late penalty into the arms of Senegal keeper Edouard Mendy.

A relentless Senegal lifted their second AFCON cup following a solitary strike from Pape Gueye, a goal that sent shivers down the spine of Moroccans.

The 21-year-old Khannous, who plies his trade in Germany for VFB Stuttgart, admitted that leaving with the shock of the defeat is unimaginable.

Morocco last won the tournament in 1976

“It is hard to find the words in such moments. I want to thank His Majesty for the tremendous 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,” he wrote a post that is circulating on social media platforms

“We lived together for a whole month, full of wonderful moments, like one family,” he added. “Thanks to the coach, his staff, and all the silent soldiers who worked with us. We gave everything we had until the very last minute.”

“Watching the clips is painful, of course, but it will make us stronger and more determined in the future,” he said. “Thank you to all Moroccans for your support 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 must wait for the 2027 Africa Cup Nations to be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda to stand a chance of breaking their 50-year drought. The Atlas Lions last won the tournament in 1976.