The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 final delivered unforgettable drama, but one moment stands out: Brahim Díaz’s missed Panenka penalty in stoppage time. The Real Madrid forward, Morocco’s talisman and tournament top scorer, had the chance to end a 50-year title drought for the hosts. Instead, his tame chip—easily caught by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy—paved the way for Senegal’s extra-time victory. This high-stakes failure encapsulates the Panenka’s allure and peril, leaving Díaz to reflect on a moment that could haunt his career.
The Final’s Tense Build-Up
Senegal and hosts Morocco battled to a goalless draw through 90 minutes in Rabat. Controversy erupted late: a disallowed Senegal goal, followed by a 98th-minute penalty for Morocco after El Hadji Malick Diouf’s challenge on Díaz.
Senegal coach Pape Thiaw led a protest walk-off, delaying play ~17 minutes. Sadio Mané persuaded teammates back, but the interruption heightened pressure on Díaz.
Facing Mendy, Díaz opted for the Panenka—chipping down the middle as the keeper dives. The execution faltered: weak and central, comfortably saved. Mendy barely moved, triggering Senegal celebrations.
Pape Gueye scored four minutes into extra time, sealing Senegal’s second AFCON title in five years.
Díaz’s Tournament and the Miss’s Impact
Díaz shone brightly, netting five goals to lead scoring charts. His flair propelled Morocco to the final, earning admiration.
Yet the miss overshadowed achievements. Pundits predicted “nightmares”: Hassan Kachloul noted haunting regret; Daniel Amokachi said it “threw away glorious moments”; Jon Obi Mikel called it devastating; Efan Ekoku deemed it unforgettable.
Morocco coach Walid Regragui acknowledged delay’s role: “He had a lot of time… which must have disturbed him.”
Díaz, substituted later, appeared tearful on the bench.
The Panenka Penalty: History and Risk
Named after Antonín Panenka’s 1976 Euro final chip for Czechoslovakia against West Germany, the technique waits for the keeper’s dive before gentle placement.
Successes include:
- Zinedine Zidane (2006 World Cup final)
- Andrea Pirlo (Euro 2012 quarter-final vs England)
- Sergio Ramos (Euro 2012 semi-final)
Failures abound: Zidane and Pirlo missed earlier attempts; recent Premier League examples include Ademola Lookman and Enzo Le Fée.
Díaz’s ranks among the worst—low power, predictable direction—under immense pressure.
| Famous Panenka Attempts | Outcome | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Antonín Panenka (1976) | Success | Euro final winner |
| Zinedine Zidane (2006) | Success (off bar) | World Cup final |
| Andrea Pirlo (2012) | Success | Euro quarter-final vs England |
| Brahim Díaz (2025) | Failure (saved easily) | AFCON final |
| Ademola Lookman (2020) | Failure | Premier League |
The tactic’s boldness thrills but exposes to ridicule when flawed.
Senegal’s Triumph Amid Chaos
Senegal overcame adversity: protest stemmed from perceived injustices, including security concerns pre-final. Mané’s leadership ensured resumption; Mendy’s save and Gueye’s goal delivered glory.
Thiaw apologised for the walk-off, accepting referee decisions. Regragui called it “shameful,” arguing it dishonoured Africa.
The final’s chaos contrasted tournament highs, hosted superbly by Morocco.
Legacy of the Moment
Díaz, 25, faces reflection but youth offers redemption. His talent—evident in five goals—promises recovery.
The miss joins infamous penalty lore, reminding football’s cruelty: one kick defining legacies.
Senegal celebrate justly; Morocco rue what might have been. AFCON 2025’s dramatic conclusion ensures enduring memory.
This final blended skill, controversy, and emotion—pure football theatre.
