Hakimi Rejects AFCON Title Awarded to Morocco, Backs Senegal’s On-Field Victory
Achraf Hakimi has publicly declined recognition as the winner of the Africa Cup of Nations, insisting that Morocco national football team did not earn the title on the pitch, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The Paris Saint-Germain F.C. defender made the remarks following Morocco’s defeat to Senegal national football team in the tournament final, despite a subsequent ruling by the Confederation of African Football awarding Morocco a 3–0 victory due to Senegal’s walk-off during the match.
Hakimi stressed that he could not accept the title under such circumstances, maintaining that Senegal deserved to be recognised as champions based on their performance during the game.
“Football is about merit,” Hakimi said, emphasising that victories should be decided on the field rather than through administrative decisions.
While acknowledging CAF’s authority, the Moroccan captain reiterated his personal rejection of any outcome that contradicts what transpired during play, adding that accepting the trophy would undermine the principles of fair competition.
The controversy stems from the CAF Appeal Board’s decision to overturn the original result of the final, ruling that Senegal forfeited the match following the walk-off incident in Rabat.
However, the Senegalese Football Federation has strongly opposed the verdict and confirmed plans to challenge the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Hakimi’s stance has drawn widespread attention across the football world, with many observers highlighting the rarity of a player rejecting a major continental honour on grounds of sporting integrity.
The situation continues to fuel debate within African football, raising broader questions about governance, fairness, and how competition outcomes should ultimately be determined.
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