Walid Rkraki, head coach of the Moroccan national team, expressed his disappointment following the Atlas Lions' loss to the Senegalese team by one goal to nil in the final match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, held on Sunday evening at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium in the capital Rabat.

Rkraki confirmed in his statements after the match that small details decided the outcome of the final, pointing out that the Moroccan team was just a few steps away from winning, especially after being awarded a penalty kick in the final minutes of the match.

The Moroccan coach said that moment was tough on everyone, explaining that the penalty kick gave a feeling of near victory before football showed its harsh side in the decisive moments.

Rkraki emphasized that the defeat does not diminish the effort the players exerted throughout the tournament, expressing his confidence in their ability to come back stronger in the upcoming period, affirming that work will continue to achieve the national team's goals.

The head coach also expressed his dissatisfaction with some aspects that accompanied the tournament, considering that the image of African football was affected since the start of the competition amid what he described as less than ideal conditions.

Despite the bitterness of the loss, Rkraki made sure to congratulate the Senegalese team on their victory, affirming his respect for what the opponent achieved before concluding his statements by stressing that the Moroccan national team project continues and that the Atlas Lions will return stronger in future challenges.