AFCON Final Drama: Brahim Diaz Misses Penalty as Senegal Return After Protest

Morocco star Brahim Diaz missed a crucial penalty as Senegal returned to the pitch following a brief protest during Sunday night’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.

The Real Madrid midfielder attempted a Panenka-style chip from the spot but failed to score, missing a golden chance to secure the trophy for Morocco in front of a packed Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah.

The penalty came amid tense and extraordinary scenes in the final. Senegal players had initially walked off the pitch in protest after the referee awarded the late spot-kick, arguing against the decision. After several minutes of discussions and appeals, the Senegalese team returned, allowing the match to resume.

Diaz, however, could not capitalize, as his penalty was comfortably saved by the Senegal goalkeeper.

Earlier in extra time, Senegal had taken the lead through Pape Gueye, who scored in the opening minutes of the first half of extra time to put his team 1-0 ahead.

The goal intensified the high-stakes atmosphere in a final already marked by controversy, protests, and drama. With Diaz’s miss proving costly, Senegal held their advantage as the match edged toward a historic conclusion, sealing one of the most dramatic AFCON finals in recent memory.

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