The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), held in Morocco, reached its conclusion on January 18, 2026. The tournament was defined by a mix of high-quality football and unprecedented drama, culminating in Senegal lifting their second continental trophy.
Team Trophies and Standings
After 52 matches across nine venues, the final standings saw the “Lions of Teranga” return to the summit of African football.
Champions: Senegal (2nd Title)
Victory: Defeated Morocco 1–0 in extra time.
Runners-up: Morocco
Achievement: Reached their first final in 22 years (since 2004).
Third Place: Nigeria
Achievement: Defeated Egypt 4–2 on penalties in the bronze-medal match.
Fair Play Award: Morocco
Recognition: Awarded for their discipline and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
Individual Honors (The “Golden” Awards)
The individual awards were dominated by the two finalists, with Senegal’s veteran leadership and Morocco’s offensive firepower taking center stage.
1. Player of the Tournament (TotalEnergies MVP)
Winner: Sadio Mané (Senegal)
The Story: At 33, Mané secured his second AFCON MVP award (adding to his 2021 trophy). He finished the tournament with 2 goals and 3 assists, but it was his leadership during the chaotic final—where he reportedly convinced his teammates to return to the pitch after a protest—that sealed his legacy as the tournament’s standout figure.
2. Golden Boot (Top Scorer)
Winner: Brahim Díaz (Morocco)
The Story: The Real Madrid star finished with 5 goals. Díaz made history as the first player to score in five consecutive matches in a single AFCON tournament. Despite the accolade, he left the pitch in tears after missing a crucial “Panenka” penalty in the final minutes of regular time.
3. Golden Glove (Best Goalkeeper)
Winner: Yassine Bounou (Morocco)
The Story: Commonly known as “Bono,” he maintained his reputation as Africa’s premier shot-stopper. He recorded 5 clean sheets throughout the competition and was the hero of Morocco’s semi-final penalty shootout win over Nigeria.
4. Tournament Statistical Highlights
- Total Goals Scored: 121 (average of 2.33 per match).
- Final Attendance: Over 50,000 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
- Winning Goal: Scored by Pape Alassane Gueye in the 94th minute (the first half of extra time).
