Failed Panenka at AFCON: Altercation between Brahim Diaz and Hakimi confirmed

Brahim Diaz and Achraf Hakimi clashed violently during Morocco’s March gathering, the first squad reunion after the 2025 AFCON final, L’Équipe reveals on the sidelines of the 2026 World Cup quarter-final between France and Morocco. The spark: the panenka attempted — and missed — by the Real Madrid forward in that final, which had cost the Lions of the Atlas the title before Morocco was ultimately crowned on a walkover against Senegal.

According to the sports daily, harsh words were exchanged between the two squad leaders. Diaz has since apologized to the group and “tried to win hearts back,” but the bond remains “strained” with PSG’s right-back. The tension has eased somewhat, without the two men truly reconciling.

Appointed head coach in early March to replace Walid Regragui, Mohamed Ouahbi attempted to defuse the situation. Cohabitation between Diaz and Hakimi is now proceeding correctly, with the interests of Moroccan football taking precedence over personal grievances, but the relationship remains complicated.

Ouahbi publicly defended his forward in a press conference: “He is a very great player and if he can continue to not have big matches as you say and provide assists, I’ll take it. He helps defensively. We always expect more from great players. I expect my players to be committed and he is. Yes, he hasn’t delivered like at AFCON, but the competition is long. He is one of our best players.” Strong backing from the coach that is not, for now, enough to completely erase the aftermath of this gesture poorly received in the dressing room.