Real Madrid star Brahim Díaz has issued an emotional apology to the people of Morocco following his costly penalty miss in Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal.
With the scores level in the 95th minute, Díaz had the chance to end Morocco’s 50-year wait for a continental title. However, his audacious attempt at a “Panenka” chip was saved by Édouard Mendy, a mistake that proved fatal as Senegal went on to secure a 1-0 victory in extra time.
“I Take Full Responsibility”
Taking to social media on Monday, the tournament’s top scorer didn’t hide from the criticism. In a heartfelt message, Díaz expressed the depth of his disappointment:
“My soul aches. I dreamed of this title because of all the love you gave me. Yesterday, I failed, and I take full responsibility. I apologize from the bottom of my heart. It will take me a while to recover because this wound won’t heal easily, but I will try—for everyone who believed in me.”
Despite the heartbreaking miss, Brahim Díaz finished the 2026 AFCON as the Golden Boot winner, further cementing his status as the new leader of the Atlas Lions.
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Return to Real Madrid and Champions League
The playmaker will not have much time to dwell on the defeat. Díaz is expected to return to Valdebebas this week to rejoin Carlo Ancelotti’s squad.
Real Madrid faces a crucial UEFA Champions League clash against AS Monaco tomorrow (Tuesday). While it remains to be seen if he is mentally and physically ready to start, Díaz is almost certain to be available for Saturday’s La Liga trip to face Villarreal.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
