AFCON 2025 Controversy: Achraf Hakimi Admits Regret Over Morocco’s Towel Incident #AFCON2025 #Morocco #FootballDrama
Story: written by Joseph April 10,2026
Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has publicly expressed remorse over the controversial towel incidents that marred the closing stages of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The incidents involved opposing goalkeepers, including Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali and Senegal’s Édouard Mendy, who were repeatedly denied access to towels during crucial moments of their matches against Morocco.
Television footage captured Moroccan players, staff, and ball boys attempting to remove or withhold towels meant for the goalkeepers—an action widely interpreted as a tactic to disrupt their grip in damp, rainy conditions.
A similar episode occurred during the semifinal clash between Morocco and Nigeria, where Stanley Nwabali faced the same interference. In the final, Senegal’s Édouard Mendy was also affected as towels were reportedly taken away amid light rainfall.
Speaking after Paris Saint-Germain secured a 2-0 victory over Liverpool FC in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg, Hakimi admitted the conduct fell short of expectations.
“These were intense and difficult moments on the pitch,” he said. “I’m not proud of the image we projected with those actions. Despite everything, the team performed strongly throughout the tournament.”
Morocco had earlier edged Nigeria 4-2 on penalties in the AFCON semifinal after missed spot-kicks from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi.
Hakimi, however, maintained that Morocco approached the competition with respect for their opponents, even as the towel controversy continues to spark debate among fans and analysts.
