Morocco’s Royal Court has reaffirmed that the bonds of African brotherhood will endure despite the “shameful incidents” that marred the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations between Morocco and Senegal.
In a statement released on Thursday via the Royal Moroccan Football Federation’s X handle, the Royal Court expressed His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s gratitude to all Moroccans for their contributions to the successful hosting of the tournament, which took place from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
“The tournament will remain a landmark in the history of continental competition.
“In addition to its excellent sporting results, it reflected the Kingdom’s qualitative leap on the path of development and progress, thanks to a far-sighted vision and a unique Moroccan model that places the citizen at the heart of all aspirations,” the statement said.
The Royal Court also addressed the incident during the final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, where Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 in extra time to claim their second title in three tournaments.
The match, locked at 0-0 deep into stoppage time, descended into chaos after referee Jean-Jacques Ndala disallowed a Senegal goal for an alleged foul by Abdoulaye Seck on Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi.
Moments later, a controversial penalty was awarded to Morocco for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Senegal coach Pape Thiaw ordered his players to walk off the pitch in protest, a move described by Morocco’s head coach Walid Regragui as “shameful.”
The incident triggered fan unrest, including clashes with police and objects being thrown onto the field, which delayed the proceedings.
The game eventually resumed, but Díaz missed the penalty, allowing Pape Gueye to score the extra-time winner for Senegal.
The final added to the controversies during the tournament, including allegations of Moroccan ball boys interfering with Senegal’s goalkeeper and invading technical areas, fuelling calls for scrutiny of host conduct.
Despite the drama, the Royal Court downplayed the discord, emphasising that African unity would endure.
It stated, “While this grand continental football event, hosted by the Kingdom, was marred by the unfortunate events that occurred in the final minutes of the final match between the Moroccan and Senegalese teams, during which shameful incidents and behaviours were recorded, once the tension and emotions subside, the bonds of African brotherhood will naturally prevail.
“This Moroccan success is also a success for all of Africa. Morocco will remain proud to have provided a month of popular joy and sporting enthusiasm on its soil, thus contributing to the prominence of Africa and football on the continent.
“On the other hand, in the face of defamation and attempts to undermine credibility, His Majesty the King, may God grant him victory, remains convinced that hostile schemes will never achieve their aims, and that the Moroccan people know how to distinguish between matters and will not succumb to malice and division.
It continued, “Nothing can harm the close ties woven over centuries between our African peoples, nor the fruitful cooperation existing between the various countries of the continent, which continues to be strengthened by more ambitious partnerships.
“The Kingdom of Morocco has been and will remain a great African nation, faithful to the spirit of brotherhood, solidarity, and respect it has always shown towards its continent.”
King Mohammed VI also commended citizens across Morocco for their tireless support of the national team, which now ranks eighth in the world.
According to him, the success highlights the impact of proactive sports policies, infrastructure development, and the dedication of Moroccan players from around the globe.
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