'What Are You Playing Panenka For?' – Ighalo Slams Diaz’s as Senegal Lift AFCON Title

Former Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo criticised Brahim Diaz after the Real Madrid forward missed a late penalty in Morocco’s AFCON final defeat to Senegal. Diaz attempted a Panenka, which was saved by Eduardo Mendy, prompting Ighalo to question his judgment.

“In a game like this… what are you playing Panenka for,” he said, urging him to “just go there and hit the ball hard.” Despite the criticism, Ighalo praised Diaz’s display and said “apart from the penalty, he’s been good.” He added that “Senegal deserves to win.” The former Nigeria international also faulted VAR, saying “the ref did not check” Senegal’s goal but checked Morocco’s. He further criticised Senegal coach Pape Thiaw’s walk-off, saying “it is unfair to them.”