Recently retired Morocco National Men’s Football Team player Romain Saiss says he relives the 2025 AFCON with a lot of sadness. (Scroll down to watch video)
He described feeling “empty” since Morocco finished second in the competition as hosts. In the wake of the loss, Morocco head coach Walid Regragui announced his exit from the role. (Click highlighted text to read full story)
The Atlas Lions lost 1-0 to Senegal in the final thanks to Pape Gueye’s brilliant strike in extra time despite the chaos that almost ruined the game after Senegal threatened to boycott in protest over unfair officiating.
However, prior to Gueye’s game winner, Morocco had the chance to clinch the title in regulation time when they were awarded a penalty in the 90th minute. Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz’s Panenka penalty attempt was easily saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy to force the game to extra time.
After announcing his retirement from international football a week ago, Saiss reflected on the 2025 final stating,
“I thought he- Brahim Diaz- was going to smash it straight down the middle—thank you, goodbye, we lift the trophy and go celebrate. He could have been the hero, but he wanted to be the superhero. Since that moment, and even now, I feel empty.”
“Il n’a pas osé faire ça ?!”⚡️
Romain Saïss, le capitaine du Maroc raconte son “cauchemar” du pénalty de Brahim Diaz et la finale de la CAN 🇲🇦
Interview à venir prochainement sur Colinterview 👀#Maroc #CAN #Panenka #brahimdiaz #penalty pic.twitter.com/mypypV8GDQ— Colinterview (@Colinterview) March 5, 2026
