By USMAN ALIYU

King Mohammed VI of Morocco has hailed the successful hosting of the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025), describing the tournament as a defining moment for Morocco and a victory for the entire continent.

The king’s remark is contained in a statement released on Thursday by the Royal Cabinet following the conclusion of the tournament held from Dec. 21, 2025, to Jan. 18, 2026.

He noted that Morocco was “proud to have offered, on its soil, a month of popular joy and sporting emotion, and to have contributed to the prominence of Africa and its football.”

The monarch described AFCON 2025 as more than a sporting success, noting that the event showcased Morocco’s broader development strides.

“This edition of the continental competition will stand as a milestone.

“As beyond its excellent sporting results, it made for a gauge for the kingdom’s major leap on the path to development and progress, fruit of a long-term vision and a unique and efficient Moroccan model which puts the citizen at the heart of all ambition,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to all Moroccans who contributed to the success of the tournament, commending institutions, volunteers and citizens for their collective effort.

The king also praised the enthusiasm of Moroccan fans for their “exemplary” support of the national team, now ranked eighth in the world.

He attributed the Moroccan team’s performance to sustained investment in sports development and infrastructure.

The king also applauded the commitment of talented players from the Moroccan diaspora who chose to represent the country “with pride and gusto.”

Addressing incidents that marred the final moments of the match between Morocco and Senegal, he acknowledged the regrettable nature of the events but urged calm and unity.

“Even if this major continental football celebration hosted by the kingdom appears to have been sadly marred by the unfortunate events of the final minutes of the match, it remains nonetheless that, once passions have subsided, inter-African fraternity will naturally prevail,” he said.

The monarch stressed that “this Moroccan success was also an African success.”

The king dismissed what he described as attempts to discredit Morocco’s achievement, saying such efforts would not undermine long-standing bonds across the continent.

“Nothing will alter the closeness that was fostered over centuries between our African peoples, nor the fruitful cooperation built hand in hand with different countries of the continent,” he said.

Reaffirming Morocco’s African identity and commitment, the king said the country “is and shall remain a great African country, faithful to the spirit of brotherhood, solidarity and mutual respect.”

He added that Morocco would continue to work for “a united and prosperous Africa” through deeper partnerships and the exchange of expertise and knowledge. (NAN)