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Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has signalled a shift in position over the controversial Africa Cup of Nations title, saying his team will “take it” despite the circumstances surrounding the victory.

“Even if we had to win the AFCON 2025 this way, we take it. We are very happy. I have waited for this moment for so long,” Hakimi said, in comments shared by top transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano.

From hesitation to acceptance

Hakimi’s latest remarks mark a noticeable shift from his earlier tone in the immediate aftermath of the final, where he appeared reserved and uneasy about how the title was decided.

The tournament ended in controversy after Confederation of African Football awarded Morocco the title following off-field developments, despite Senegal national football team having secured victory during play.

In the hours that followed, Hakimi’s reaction stood out.

Rather than celebrating outright, his initial comments and demeanour suggested discomfort with the outcome, as debate raged across Africa and beyond over the legitimacy of the decision.

A title that divided opinion

The decision to award the title away from the pitch sparked widespread reaction from fans, analysts and former players, many arguing that the result should have been settled on the field.

For Morocco, however, the official record now stands — champions of Africa.

Hakimi’s latest comments appear to reflect that reality: accept the trophy, even if the path to it remains contested.

Hakimi is not just any player — as captain, his words carry weight. His shift from caution to acceptance mirrors a broader transition within the Moroccan camp, from uncertainty to embracing the title.

But the controversy is unlikely to fade soon. For many, the question still lingers:

Was AFCON won on the pitch — or in the boardroom?