Egypt Ambassador Celebrates Morocco's AFCON Final Run

When your rival makes history, sometimes the classiest move is to celebrate with them.

Egypt's ambassador to Morocco, Ahmed Nihad Abdel-Latif, took to social media with heartfelt congratulations after Morocco's Atlas Lions secured their spot in the AFCON 2025 final. His message came despite Egypt's own elimination in the semifinals, showing that sports can unite even competing nations.

Morocco earned their final berth through a nail-biting penalty shootout against Nigeria in Rabat. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved two crucial shots before Youssef En-Nesyri slammed home the winning penalty. The 4-2 shootout victory ended 120 minutes of scoreless play and sent Morocco to their first continental final since 2004.

"I extend my sincerest congratulations to Morocco and to all my Moroccan friends on this great achievement," Abdel-Latif wrote. "I wish them every success in next Sunday's final."

The ambassador's praise built on earlier statements thanking Morocco for hosting Egypt's team. Throughout the tournament, the Egyptian embassy coordinated logistics, security, and support for the Pharaohs squad. When defender Mohamed Hamdy suffered a serious knee injury, embassy officials even secured emergency medical clearance for his surgery in Germany.

The Ripple Effect

Abdel-Latif's gesture reflects something bigger than football. His public support demonstrates how sports tournaments can strengthen diplomatic ties and cultural understanding between neighboring countries. Morocco hosted Egyptian fans traveling from Rabat and Casablanca, while Moroccan crowds supported the Pharaohs during their matches in Agadir.

Morocco now faces defending champions Senegal in Sunday's final, chasing their first continental trophy in 50 years. Meanwhile, Egypt will play Nigeria in Saturday's third-place match at Casablanca's Stade Mohammed V, giving both semifinal losers another chapter in one of African football's greatest rivalries.

In a tournament filled with dramatic moments, this diplomatic exchange reminds us that the real victory might be the friendships forged along the way.