Senegal were crowned champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after edging hosts Morocco 1–0 in a dramatic and controversial final decided in extra time in Rabat.
The tense showdown appeared destined for penalties until a chaotic moment late in normal time shifted the course of the match.
Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty following a VAR review, a decision that sparked furious protests from Senegal’s players, who briefly walked off the pitch.
Order was restored after several minutes, but Brahim Diaz failed to capitalise, seeing his attempted Panenka saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.
That miss proved decisive. Just four minutes into extra time, Pape Gueye struck the winning goal, driving past Yassine Bounou to stun the home crowd and hand Senegal their second AFCON title in three tournaments.
The final was overshadowed by ugly scenes, including clashes involving players, officials and fans, but Senegal held firm to secure victory and extend Morocco’s wait for continental glory to 50 years.
For the Lions of Teranga, it marked another historic triumph and reinforced their status among Africa’s elite footballing nations.
