Achraf Hakimi Apologizes for Penalty Miss and Sends Message of Support to Bafana Bafana
Morocco’s star right-back, Achraf Hakimi, has broken his silence after missing a crucial penalty against Bafana Bafana in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, expressing regret for the pivotal moment and sending a heartfelt message of support to the South African team.
In the 84th minute of the match, Hakimi, one of the most high-profile players at the tournament, faced a penalty kick that could have leveled the score at 1-1.
However, he displayed nerves and sent the ball over the bar, contributing to Morocco’s 2-0 defeat and their subsequent elimination from the competition.
Achraf Hakimi had some things to say about his penalty miss
Taking to social media to address the disappointing outcome, Hakimi conveyed his apologies to the Moroccan fans and acknowledged the weight of his missed penalty.
Achraf Hakimi speaks
He wrote:
“Today is a very difficult and sad day for our elimination.”
“Apologies for the penalty, I took the responsibility of helping the team, but unfortunately it didn’t work.”
Despite the setback, Hakimi expressed gratitude towards the Moroccan supporters, particularly those who traveled to Ivory Coast for the tournament.
He remained optimistic about the team’s future, stating,
“We will rise and come back stronger from now on! God willing.”
In addition to addressing the collective disappointment, Hakimi took a moment to show support for his teammate Amine Adli, who tragically lost his brother just ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.
Achraf Hakimi praised Adli’s dedication to representing his country despite personal hardships, saying:
“What about you, my brother Amine Adli? After all you’ve been through, you came and gave it all for your country, and we are so proud of you! I love you so much, brother.”
Concluding his message, Hakimi extended best wishes to the South African national team for the remainder of the competition.
“Morocco is always! And good luck to the South African national team for the rest of the competition,”