Morocco reach Women’s AFCON quarter-finals as Senegal penalty jibes revive Brahim Diaz controversy

Morocco’s goalless draw with Senegal in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations has sparked a dispute beyond the pitch, after two missed penalties prompted mockery from some Senegalese supporters and commentators. The incident also revived memories of Brahim Diaz’s penalty miss against Senegal in the men’s final last year, coinciding with the Morocco international’s 27th birthday.

Morocco secured their place in the quarter-finals after holding Senegal to a 0-0 draw at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat on Monday. The match was the third and final game of the group stage.

The hosts had the better of the second half and were given two opportunities to take the lead from the penalty spot. On both occasions, however, Senegal goalkeeper Adji Ndiaye denied Morocco midfielder Yasmin Mrabet and emerged as the outstanding player of the match.

Ndiaye made her first save in the 65th minute, keeping out Mrabet’s effort and turning the ball away near the right-hand post. Just four minutes later, she produced another stop to prevent the same player from converting a second penalty.

The consecutive misses quickly became a major talking point on social media. Some Senegalese fans and commentators used the incident to ridicule Morocco, with the Senegalese account “Teranga Boy” among those to draw a connection with Diaz’s high-profile miss.

Diaz failed to score from a Panenka-style penalty in the 2025 men’s Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal. He attempted to deceive Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy with a chipped effort down the middle, but the attempt did not result in a goal.

The comparison gained further attention because Mrabet’s missed penalties came on the same day Diaz celebrated his 27th birthday. Some users viewed the timing as an added coincidence and brought the moment from the men’s final back into the conversation.

According to Africa Soccer, a website specialising in African sports news, the Senegalese taunts were followed by a response from Moroccan users online. Some accused Senegal of using magic, referring to an earlier controversy involving the Senegal team and the so-called “towels” affair, which had generated debate during previous competitions.

Despite the draw, Morocco progressed to the next stage of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, while Senegal were eliminated after finishing their group campaign.

The latest exchange also brought renewed attention to the disputed conclusion of the 2025 men’s Africa Cup of Nations final. Senegal initially won the match 1-0, but Morocco were subsequently awarded the title through an administrative decision.

Senegal have appealed that ruling to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). A decision from the sports tribunal is expected in October, with the outcome still being awaited.