Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has formally rejected the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, saying Morocco did not deserve it following their defeat in the final. The Paris Saint-Germain defender insisted that neither he nor his teammates should accept the trophy, regardless of the Confederation of African Football’s decision.
“My mum told me to reject the AFCON trophy. I’m officially rejecting it and hope my teammates do same. We had a chance but failed to win,” Hakimi said.
He acknowledged Senegal’s victory, emphasizing that the team were deserving champions and warning against any actions that could diminish their achievement.
“That’s football, sometimes you win and lose. Senegal beat us fairly and deserved it. It will be unfair to ruin their joy after the hard work,” he added.
Hakimi stressed that while he respects CAF’s position, he cannot accept a title he feels Morocco did not earn on the field.
“I respect the CAF decision but I’m officially rejecting the trophy. I didn’t win 2025 AFCON. Congratulations to Senegal once again,” he said.
