RABAT, Morocco — On 18 January 2026, Senegal secured the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title with a dramatic 1-0 extra-time victory over host nation Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, a match that will be remembered for its intensity, controversy and decisive late goal.
The two sides battled to a scoreless draw through 90 minutes, with both defenses holding firm and chances at a premium. Late in regulation time, Morocco appeared set to snatch the title when they were awarded a controversial penalty following a VAR review for a foul in the box, a decision that sparked vehement protests from the Senegalese players and coaching staff.
Subtitle: Controversy and Triumph Collide
Senegal’s response to the penalty call was extraordinary: under instructions from coach Pape Bouna Thiaw, the team briefly walked off the field in protest, creating a significant interruption in play before captain Sadio Mané convinced his teammates to return. After more than a ten-minute delay, Morocco’s Brahim Díaz stepped up, but his Panenka-style attempt was comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, keeping the score level and sending the final into extra time.
Just four minutes into extra time (94th minute), Senegal struck the decisive blow. Midfielder Pape Gueye collected the ball from a move initiated by Mané and Idrissa Gana Gueye, holding off defenders before unleashing a precise shot into the top corner past Moroccan keeper Yassine Bounou.
Reflecting on the breakthrough, Gueye said after the match, “We really wanted this title for our country, and we gave everything until the last minute.” His strike not only sealed the match but also secured Senegal’s second AFCON title in history, their first since winning in 2021.
In contrast, Morocco’s coach Walid Regragui expressed disappointment at how events unfolded, stating, “When you get a penalty in the last minute, you can see victory very close, but in the end, football catches up with you.” The hosts had been chasing a first continental championship since 1976 and fell agonizingly short in front of a partisan crowd of over 66,000 spectators.
The final will be remembered not only for Senegal’s perseverance and ultimate triumph but also for the scenes of protest and debate surrounding officiating decisions — factors that sparked discussion across African football circles in the hours following the match.
