Real Madrid €35M Star Collapses! Misses Crucial Panenka, Tears at AFCON Award Ceremony

On January 19, the AFCON final saw Morocco host Senegal, but the home side lost 0-1 after extra time, missing the chance to claim their second title in 60 years.

In the dying seconds of regular time, Morocco had a golden opportunity—a penalty awarded after Dias was pulled in the box and VAR confirmed the foul. The €35 million Real Madrid striker had the chance to give his nation a historic title.

However, with tensions running high—Senegal players briefly staged a protest—the pressure on Dias was immense. Ultimately, he attempted a “Panenka-style” penalty with neither power nor precision, easily saved by Mendy, costing Morocco the winning goal.

Journalist Tancredi Palmeri commented bluntly: “Dias missed that penalty on purpose. When Mendy saved it, how could the Senegalese players not celebrate?”

After missing the penalty, Dias was substituted in extra time, visibly breaking down in tears. Senegal scored the decisive goal, denying Morocco the trophy. Dias later received the AFCON Golden Boot award tearfully, leaving the stage quietly after facing boos from Senegalese fans.