We Didn’t Earn It" Hakimi Shocks World, Refuses AFCON Crown and Backs Senegal’s Victory

In a dramatic twist that has intensified the controversy surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has publicly rejected the title awarded to his team, insisting that Senegal were the rightful winners on the pitch.

The Paris Saint-Germain defender made the stunning declaration following a disputed decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to overturn Senegal’s victory and award Morocco a 3–0 win after a temporary walk-off during the final.

Hakimi revealed that even his mother advised him to reject the honour, emphasizing that accepting the trophy would undermine the integrity of the game.

“We had our chance and we failed. Senegal beat us fairly,” he said, urging his teammates to follow his stance and refuse recognition as champions.

His comments have drawn global attention, as the AFCON controversy continues to spark outrage across the football world, with critics arguing the ruling damages the credibility of African football governance.

By openly backing Senegal, Hakimi’s decision is being widely seen as a rare act of sportsmanship placing fairness above official recognition in one of the most disputed finals in AFCON history.