Story byLa Liga: Real Madrid fully backs Brahim DiazFoot AfricaWed, January 21, 2026 at 8:40 AM UTC·1 min readReal Madrid fully backs Brahim DiazReal Madrid is set to throw its full support behind Moroccan international Brahim Diaz after his missed panenka in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025). AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe former Manchester City player had the title at his feet, but opted for a daring move instead of playing it safe with his penalty against Édouard Mendy, Senegal's last line of defense. As a result, the Al Ahly keeper stopped the panenka, before his teammate Pape Gueye sealed Senegal's triumph with a goal in extra time. Utterly dejected after this cruel twist of fate, the Atlas Lion nevertheless received support from his club, which plans a special welcome for him on Wednesday, January 21, as he returns to training. Furthermore, his coach Álvaro Arbeloa is considering giving him playing time on Saturday, January 24, during the away match at Villarreal for the 21st round of La Liga.
