While the scars of that night may never fully fade, those around the club feel the winger has shown impressive mental strength since returning to Spain.
Advertisement
The AFCON final was meant to be the highlight of Brahim’s international rise.
What happened to Brahim?
Morocco found themselves embroiled in a tense, goalless battle against Senegal, with history at their fingertips.
Already in second-half added time, Díaz scored a penalty that could have ended his country’s 50-year wait for the trophy and secured its place in Moroccan folklore.
Instead, the moment became heartbreaking when Brahim attempted a penalty for Panenka.
The gamble failed miserably, as Edouard Mendy was stuck on the spot and caught the ball with ease, leaving the stadium stunned.
Brahim seems to be recovering from his international heartbreak. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Advertisement
The impact on Brahim was immediate and visible. Understandably, he seemed devastated.
After the tournament, attention turned to how Brahim would respond. Mental setbacks of that scale can persist, especially for attacking players whose confidence is fundamental to their game.
A strong return
His return to Real Madrid therefore suggested a player determined to move forward rather than hide from the moment.
Brahim made his comeback against Villarreal and, although his minutes were limited, the symbolism came at the end of the game.
When Madrid were awarded a penalty in the final minutes, Kylian Mbappé stepped up and calmly took home a Panenka goal to make it 2-0.
Mbappé dedicated the goal to Brahim, in a subtle but powerful show of support that demonstrated the unity within the Madrid locker room.