The 2026 Africa Cup of Nations final has earned a reputation for being one of the most unusual in tournament history. The dramatic encounter in Rabat featured an unprecedented turn of events when Senegal walked off the pitch in the 97th minute after a controversial penalty was awarded to Morocco. Remarkably, the team returned fifteen minutes later at the urging of Sadio Mané, only for the penalty to be missed, sending the match into extra time.
Brahim Díaz, who had been a key player for Morocco throughout the tournament, found himself at the center of the chaos. Despite his earlier performances, Díaz struggled significantly during the final, often isolated on the wing with minimal influence on the game’s flow. However, in a pivotal moment, he won a contentious penalty after being brought down by Senegal’s Diouf, a decision that went through VAR review by referee Jean-Jacques Nagambo.
Senegal was already incensed following a disallowed goal by Diouf due to a slip from Achraf Hakimi, and tensions escalated to the point where they decided to leave the pitch in protest. Upon resuming, Díaz had the opportunity to make amends. Unfortunately for him, his attempt at a Panenka penalty was saved by Senegal’s goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, leaving Díaz in disbelief as the full-time whistle blew.
Coach Walid Regragui and his teammates quickly offered support as Díaz grappled with the disappointment of his missed opportunity. The game took a further toll on him moments later when Senegal took the lead in extra time with a stunning strike from Pape Gueye, leaving Morocco in a difficult position. Soon after, Díaz was substituted, visibly shattered as he walked off the pitch with his face covered, unable to process the ramifications of the match.
Despite the trials experienced by Díaz and the dramatic series of events, the final showcased the resilience and competitive spirit of both teams, promising an exciting future for African football on the international stage.