'My only regret' — Mbeumo laments painful defeat as AFCON dream ends

Bryan Mbeumo has identified a hesitant first-half performance as the turning point in their quarter-final defeat to hosts Morocco.

Despite a spirited second-half display in Rabat, goals from Brahim Diaz and Ismael Saibari were enough to send the Atlas Lions through.

Speaking after the final whistle, the 26-year-old was candid about where the Indomitable Lions fell short.“Unfortunately, in the first half, we were a bit reluctant to play, and I think that is one of the only regrets we can have tonight,” Mbeumo said.

“We controlled the second half, except for their goal. It's part of the game, and we knew what to expect.”

Mbeumo’s frustration was compounded by a denied penalty appeal when the score was 1–0.

After reviewing the footage of a challenge by Torino’s Adam Masina, he added: “I felt he touched me... it's very, very obvious.

"I don't know if this match was decided solely on that, but this experience will enrich us. We have a very good, young group.”

Mbeumo will now return to Manchester United, where he will be met by a new figure in the dug-out after Ruben Amorim was sacked last week.