Achraf Hakimi has rejected the 2025 AFCON title awarded to Morocco, insisting Senegal deserved to be recognised as champions.
The Morocco captain made the statement after Confederation of African Football overturned the final result in favour of Morocco following a ruling that awarded them a 3–0 win due to a forfeiture decision against Senegal.
Despite the verdict, Hakimi said Morocco did not earn the trophy on the pitch and should not accept it. He added that he hopes his teammates take the same stance, stressing that the team missed its chance during the match.
He acknowledged that Senegal were the better side on the day and warned against taking any action that could diminish their achievement.
Hakimi maintained that while he respects CAF’s decision, he cannot accept a title he believes was not won fairly in play, congratulating Senegal for their performance.
The Senegalese Football Federation has since indicated plans to challenge the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
