Mendy reveals the truth about Diaz's penalty kick in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final
The curtain has fallen on one of the most exciting matches in the history of African football, as Edouard Mendy, goalkeeper for the Senegalese national team and Al-Ahli Saudi FC, revealed the hidden details behind his save of the decisive penalty kick taken by Moroccan star Ibrahim Diaz in the final moments of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.
The Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat witnessed a dramatic night that culminated in the victory of the "Lions of Teranga" with the continental title, in a match that held the breath of millions and was not without refereeing controversy and bold decisions.
Mindy ends the "conspiracy" controversy
Following the match, theories and speculations circulated suggesting that Brahim Diaz may have deliberately missed the penalty to defuse the tense atmosphere after the Senegalese players threatened to walk off the pitch. However, Mendy issued a firm statement to the media, categorically denying these claims and citing sporting logic and the responsibility placed on the players.
Mendy stated clearly: “Let’s be realistic, we’re talking about a continental final, with only one minute remaining, and Morocco has been waiting for this title since 1976 – almost fifty years. Is it reasonable for a player to squander such an opportunity to make things easier?” The Senegalese goalkeeper confirmed that Diaz had seriously attempted a Panenka penalty, but luck was on Mendy’s side, as he decided not to dive too early.
The drama of the withdrawal and Sadio Mane's intervention
The penalty kick was not the only event; it was preceded by unprecedented tension. After the referee awarded the penalty kick following a VAR review and a foul on El Hadji Malick Diouf, the Senegalese players decided to leave the field in protest against the decision, in a scene that almost spoiled the football celebration.
Here the true character of the leader emerged, as Sadio Mane, the star of Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr, intervened and played a pivotal role in convincing his teammates to return and complete the match, sparing his team harsh international penalties and preserving the sporting spirit of the tournament, a stance that history will remember for the Senegalese captain.
Taking a "Panenka" risk and losing the Moroccan dream
When the players returned, Brahim Diaz, under immense psychological pressure, decided to take the penalty with a Panenka-style chip down the middle of the goal. Mendy commented on the moment, saying, "I'd be lying if I said I knew where he was going to shoot, but I decided to stay standing as long as possible, and I was considering shooting down the middle given the nerves.".
Dimensions of the event and its continental impact
This final carries profound implications that extend far beyond the match result. It cements Senegal's dominance as a continental powerhouse in recent years and underscores Morocco's continued struggles in continental competitions, despite their golden generation reaching the World Cup semi-finals. The match also highlighted the remarkable evolution of African football, where small details and momentary decisions by goalkeepers and strikers are now determining major titles, amidst growing global attention for the continent's stars playing in top leagues.
