After AFCON 2025 final, Morocco calls for calm and strengthens ties with Senegal
Following the AFCON 2025 final between Morocco and Senegal, Moroccan authorities reaffirmed their commitment to calm and dialogue. This approach was highlighted during an official meeting held on January 26, 2026, in Rabat between Moroccan Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch and Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko.
The meeting took place within the framework of the 15th session of the Morocco–Senegal Joint High Commission. Both sides reaffirmed the strength of bilateral relations and their shared determination to further develop cooperation in multiple sectors.
Discussions emphasized the values of fraternity, solidarity and mutual respect that characterize relations between Morocco and Senegal, beyond the football context.
The meeting was presented as a strong signal of appeasement and continuity in the strategic partnership between Rabat and Dakar, in line with a shared African vision.
Press release
On Monday, January 26, 2026, in Rabat, Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch held talks with his Senegalese counterpart, Ousmane Sonko, who was on a working visit to Morocco as part of the 15th session of the Joint High Commission of the Moroccan-Senegalese Partnership. These talks took place in the presence of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Abroad, Mr. Nasser Bourita, as well as the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to the Republic of Senegal, Mr. Hassan Ennassiri.
During these exchanges, the two parties reaffirmed the commitment of the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Senegal, as well as their constant willingness to raise bilateral cooperation to multidimensional levels, in accordance with the guidelines of the leaders of both countries, His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist him, and His Excellency President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. The two parties also stressed that Morocco and Senegal will remain faithful to the spirit of fraternity, solidarity, and respect that they have dedicated to serving the African continent, while also praising the role of the Moroccan community residing in Senegal and the Senegalese community living in Morocco in strengthening the exceptional partnership between the two countries.
The Head of Government praised the close human, religious, and economic ties between the two nations, illustrated in particular by the eight visits made by His Majesty the King, may God preserve him, to Senegal. He also highlighted the central role played by the Republic of Senegal in royal initiatives aimed at consolidating development in Africa, notably the Royal Initiative to facilitate access for Sahel countries to the Atlantic Ocean.
This meeting was an opportunity to note the qualitative evolution of ministerial exchanges, the enrichment of the legal framework governing bilateral cooperation, and the strengthening of economic partnership and investment since Mr. Bassirou Diomaye Faye became President of the Republic of Senegal. The 15th session of the High Joint Commission of the Moroccan-Senegalese Partnership provides a timely opportunity to strengthen sectoral cooperation between the two countries through the implementation of structural projects in the fields of agriculture, energy, trade, and the digital economy, among others.
King Mohammed VI praises success of AFCON 2025 hosted by Morocco
At the end of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, held in Morocco from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026, King Mohammed VI praised the overall success of the tournament and the national mobilization that contributed to its organization. In an official statement from the Royal Cabinet, the King expressed his gratitude to Moroccan citizens and institutions for their exemplary commitment to the event.
Press release from the Royal Cabinet
At the conclusion of the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, enthusiastically hosted by the Kingdom of Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist him, wishes to express his gratitude to all members of the nation who contributed admirably to the complete success of this magnificent event.
His Majesty the King would particularly like to congratulate all citizens throughout the Kingdom’s cities for their efforts and thank each and every one of them for their wonderful contribution to this historic success, which has been recognized and praised around the world.
The Sovereign extends his compliments to the millions of Moroccans, women, men, and children who have continued to support, each in their own way and always in an exemplary manner, their national team, now ranked 8th best in the world. This remarkable result is the fruit of a proactive, high-level sports and infrastructure policy, as well as the patriotic choice made by the talented children of Moroccans around the world to wear the national team jersey and defend its colors with pride and panache.
This edition of the continental competition will go down in history because, beyond its excellent sporting results, it has demonstrated the qualitative leap that the Kingdom has made on the path to development and progress, the result of a long-term vision and a unique and successful Moroccan model that places the citizen at the center of all ambitions.
Therefore, even if this great continental football festival hosted by the Kingdom seems to have been sadly marred by the unfortunate episode in the final minutes of the final match between the national teams of Morocco and Senegal, during which regrettable incidents and deplorable acts occurred, the fact remains that once the passion has subsided, inter-African brotherhood will naturally reassert itself, because Morocco’s success is also Africa’s success. Morocco remains proud to have offered, on its soil, a month of popular joy and sporting excitement, and to have contributed to the influence of Africa and its football.
Furthermore, in the face of denigration and attempts to discredit him, His Majesty the King, may God assist him, remains convinced that hostile intentions will never succeed, that the Moroccan people know how to weigh things up and will not allow themselves to be drawn into resentment and discord. Nothing can alter the close ties cultivated over centuries between our African peoples, nor the fruitful cooperation built with the various countries of the continent and strengthened by ever more ambitious partnerships.
The Kingdom of Morocco is and will remain a great African country, faithful to the spirit of brotherhood, solidarity, and respect that it has always cultivated towards its continent. In accordance with the Sovereign’s enlightened vision, Morocco will continue its determined and constant commitment to a united and prosperous Africa, in particular through the mutual sharing of its experiences, expertise, and know-how.
AFCON 2025: Moroccan government publicly backs Brahim Diaz after missed penalty
Following Morocco’s 1–0 defeat to Senegal in the AFCON 2025 final, Brahim Diaz received public support from the Moroccan government. The forward missed a late panenka penalty during the match played in Rabat.
During a parliamentary session, Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch addressed Diaz directly, highlighting his performance throughout the tournament. Diaz finished AFCON 2025 as the top scorer with five goals.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the player’s commitment to Morocco after choosing to represent the national team.
AFCON 2025: Nigeria FA president denies clash with Fouzi Lekjaa
The Nigeria Football Federation has denied rumors claiming that its president, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, was involved in an altercation with CAF vice-president Fouzi Lekjaa during an Executive Committee meeting held in Morocco.
In an official statement, Gusau described the reports as a “total lie,” stressing that no dispute took place with the president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation. He also dismissed any controversy regarding the refereeing of the Nigeria–Morocco semi-final.
Gusau praised the organization of AFCON 2025, calling it a successful and memorable tournament for African football.
Why Morocco’s success continues to spark controversy across Africa
Morocco’s rise in African and global football has once again drawn criticism following the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Allegations of institutional favoritism circulated even before the tournament began, despite the lack of credible evidence.
These claims contrast sharply with Morocco’s recent achievements on the pitch, including a historic semi-final run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and continued success in youth competitions.
Morocco’s progress is rooted in long-term investment, infrastructure development, and governance reforms. As the country prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, its upward trajectory continues to shape debates across the continent.
AFCON 2025: Senegalese supporters cause chaos in the Morocco–Senegal final
The AFCON 2025 final, held in Rabat on Sunday, January 18, ended with Senegal defeating Morocco 1-0. The match was overshadowed by violent incidents involving Senegalese supporters in the stands.
Supporters damaged barriers, threw chairs, and attempted to enter the pitch. Several stewards and photographers were injured. One steward was taken on a stretcher to the hospital with severe jaw injuries, according to journalist Hanif Ben Berkane (Foot Mercato).
Law enforcement intervened to restore order. While Senegal won the title, these incidents tarnish the conclusion of a tournament praised for its organization and scale.
AFCON 2025: Joseph Antoine Bell defends Morocco against favoritism claims
Cameroonian football legend Joseph Antoine Bell defended Morocco following the 2025 AFCON final against Senegal. In an interview with RFI, Bell stated: “I do not feel that Morocco was particularly favored by the refereeing. The Fair Play award given to them proves this. Allegations of favoritism are therefore unfounded.”
He emphasized that all players and coaches must have full knowledge of the rules and respect them under all circumstances.
These remarks come in response to criticisms of refereeing during the final and highlight the importance of fair play and discipline in African football.
AFCON 2025: Gianni Infantino condemns incidents during Morocco–Senegal final
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, present in the stands during the 2025 AFCON final between Morocco and Senegal, strongly condemned the incidents that occurred during the match. He criticized the behavior of some Senegalese players and staff, particularly after the attempted withdrawal from the field.
“It is unacceptable to leave the field in this manner, and violence cannot be tolerated in our sport,” Infantino stated, emphasizing the importance of respecting referees and the Laws of the Game.
He called on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to take appropriate disciplinary measures. While Senegal secured the title, the incidents cast a shadow over the competition and highlight ongoing concerns regarding discipline and fair play in African football.
Morocco’s National Team Honored at Royal Reception After AFCON 2025
On the High Instructions of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid received, on Monday January 19, 2026, at the Palace of Guests in Rabat, members of the Moroccan national football team, finalists of AFCON Morocco 2025.
The royal reception took place one day after the final match against Senegal and reflects the continued royal attention granted to national athletes representing the Kingdom.
The occasion honored the Atlas Lions’ performance, their fighting spirit, and the positive image projected by Morocco throughout the tournament, both on sporting and organizational levels.
AFCON 2025 concludes with national pride, reinforcing Morocco’s status as a leading football nation in Africa and beyond.
Morocco Sets Standard for African Football Excellence at AFCON 2025
Morocco, host of AFCON 2025, demonstrates exceptional organizational capacity with modern stadiums, efficient logistics, and high-quality hosting standards
For over fifteen years, Morocco has developed football as a national development driver. Investments in youth training, professional coaching, and state-of-the-art infrastructure have made the kingdom a reference in African football. The Mohammed VI Complex stands out as the continent’s most comprehensive training and performance center, welcoming national teams, academies, coaches, and referees.
Sporting results underline the strategy’s success: semi-finalist at the 2022 World Cup, bronze medal at the Olympics, and U20 World Champion. Morocco consistently performs in all CAF competitions, earning respect from traditional powerhouses like Egypt.
Beyond the pitch, Morocco invests in media and sports communication, establishing itself as a pan-African hub for football excellence and influence.
