AFCON Update: Ivorian Attacker Apologises To Moroccan Fans

AFCON Update: Ivorian Attacker Apologises To Moroccan Fans

Sampson Adedeji

Ivory Coast winger Nicolas Pépé has issued a public apology to Moroccan football fans following backlash over a viral video in which he appeared to mock Morocco’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) record, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The video, recorded just days before the start of the upcoming AFCON tournament, showed the former Arsenal forward joking about Morocco’s trophy history.

In the clip, Pépé was heard saying, “Be careful of Morocco? How many stars do they have? They don’t have any… maybe they won one in 1818, we weren’t even born then.”

The remarks quickly sparked criticism across social media, with many Moroccan supporters interpreting the comments as disrespectful.

In response, Pépé took to Instagram to clarify the situation and offer an apology. He explained that the exchange was part of friendly banter while filming content with influencer Just Riyad.

“Hello everyone, I hope you are well. I want to address the controversy surrounding the video with Just Riyad and the comments I made about Morocco. We were joking together and teasing each other throughout the day,” he wrote.

He added that his comments were misunderstood, noting that he had also praised Morocco’s strength in the same video.

 “I apologise if my words were misunderstood or if Moroccan fans took them badly. In the video at minute 1:26, I actually said how difficult it is to face them in this AFCON edition.”

Pépé concluded with a message of unity, stressing the spirit of African football.

“We are all together we are children of the African continent. Strength to everyone,” he said.