Former Chelsea forward Solomon Kalou has criticised Morocco’s Brahim Díaz for missing a late penalty that could have changed the outcome of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.
Díaz squandered the chance in the final minute of regulation time after Morocco were awarded a penalty in the 97th minute. The Real Madrid attacker opted for a delicate panenka, but Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy read the effort and made a crucial save.
The match had been heading for a goalless draw before the late drama. Earlier in the second half, a header by Senegal’s Ismaila Sarr was disallowed for a foul on Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi.
Following the missed penalty, Senegal seized the momentum in extra time. Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal with a left-footed strike in the first half of extra time, sealing a historic AFCON triumph for the West African side.
Speaking on SuperSport after the match, Kalou said Díaz failed to rise to the moment. “He’s had a great tournament, but this is when you have to be a hero for your country,” the former Ivory Coast international said, questioning the decision to attempt a panenka in such a critical situation.
Kalou also noted that Díaz had previously converted a decisive penalty earlier in the tournament, adding that the coaching staff’s reaction showed their disappointment with the choice.
Senegal’s victory secured the 2025 AFCON title, while Nigeria claimed third place after defeating Egypt in the playoff match on Saturday.
