RABAT, Morocco — In one of the most dramatic finals in recent African football history, Senegal defeated host nation Morocco 1–0 after extra time to lift the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Sunday night. The match, played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in front of a passionate crowd of over 66,000, was marred by controversy, protests and chaos before a solitary goal ultimately decided the continental showpiece.
Late Drama and Controversial Penalty Call
The tightly contested final remained scoreless through 90 minutes, with both sides creating few clear chances. But deep in stoppage time at the end of regular play, referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded a highly disputed penalty to Morocco after a VAR review for an alleged foul in the box.
Senegal’s players reacted furiously, with coach Pape Thiaw leading his side off the pitch in protest, triggering an extended delay of around 15–20 minutes as officials attempted to restore order.
When play eventually resumed, Real Madrid winger Brahim Díaz — Morocco’s tournament top scorer — stepped up for the spot-kick, but Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy comfortably saved his attempted Panenka, keeping the score level and sending the match into extra time.
Gueye the Hero in Extra Time
Just three minutes into the first period of extra time, Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye produced a moment of brilliance — weaving past defenders and unleashing a powerful strike into the top corner to break the deadlock and send the Senegal bench and travelling fans into raptures.
Despite Morocco’s efforts to respond, including a late header against the crossbar, they were unable to find a way back into the game as Senegal held on for the 1–0 victory.
Senegal’s Second AFCON Triumph
The win marks Senegal’s second Africa Cup of Nations title, having previously lifted the trophy in 2021. It also solidifies their status as one of Africa’s premier footballing nations in recent years.
Veteran captain Sadio Mané, who has hinted this may have been his final AFCON appearance, was once again central to Senegal’s success and was widely praised for his leadership throughout the tournament.
Morocco’s Heartbreak on Home Soil
For Morocco — bidding to end a nearly 50-year wait for a second AFCON crown — the defeat was a crushing blow. Despite dominating possession at times and creating several chances, the hosts were undone by both late match drama and a failure to convert the decisive opportunities.
The chaotic scenes in stoppage time, including the walk-off and protests, drew widespread criticism and are likely to be the subject of post-match review by CAF.
Senegal now turn their attention to upcoming international commitments, including preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Meanwhile, Morocco and their supporters will seek to rebuild quickly after a campaign that ended in crushing disappointment on home soil.
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