He chose reflection and gratitude over controversy following one of the most painful nights in the nation's football history.

The defeat cut deep for Morocco, who were chasing continental glory on home soil. Losing the final in dramatic fashion only intensified the disappointment, leaving players and supporters struggling to come to terms with the outcome.

As captain and one of the team's biggest stars, Hakimi found himself under intense scrutiny in the aftermath, but opted to take time before addressing the nation.

The Paris Saint-Germain right-back had been expected to play a decisive role in the final and was involved in one of the match's most controversial moments, drawing a foul late in the game that resulted in a Senegal goal being ruled out.

With the match heading toward its climax, many anticipated Hakimi would step up for the decisive penalty, but responsibility instead fell to tournament standout Brahim Diaz - a moment that has since become part of a painful chapter in Moroccan football history.

Rather than fuelling debate, Hakimi delivered a calm and heartfelt message via his social media platforms.

"After very difficult days, trying to process everything that happened, I felt the need to speak from the heart," Hakimi wrote according to beIN Sports, stressing that he was speaking first and foremost as a proud Moroccan.

Hakimi thanked the authorities who made it possible for Morocco to host the tournament, as well as federation president Fouzi Lekjaa, but reserved his deepest appreciation for the supporters.

"You were our twelfth man," he said, crediting the fans for carrying the team through every emotional high and low of the competition.

He also praised head coach Walid Regragui and his teammates, highlighting the unity, sacrifice and discipline shown over 35 demanding days.

Despite the disappointment, Hakimi insisted the journey proved Morocco are no longer outsiders, but an established force in African and global football.

Viv Anderson sees Raheem Sterling as Arsenal's game-changer in title race