In a thrilling and highly emotional climax to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Senegal emerged as continental champions, defeating hosts Morocco 1-0 after extra time in the final played on 18 January 2026 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The victory marked a significant moment for Senegalese football, as the Lions of Teranga lifted the AFCON trophy for the second time in their history — the first since their triumph in the 2021 edition — further solidifying their status as one of Africa’s elite footballing nations.
The Road to the Final
Both Senegal and Morocco enjoyed impressive runs throughout the tournament. Senegal topped their group and advanced through the knockout rounds by beating Sudan, Mali, and Egypt, showcasing strong defensive resolve and team cohesion.
Morocco, on the other hand, captivated the home crowd throughout the competition. The Atlas Lions went through the group stage unbeaten and continued their momentum in the knockouts, including a dramatic penalty shootout win over Nigeria to secure their place in the final at home.
Reaching an AFCON final is no small feat, and for Morocco it was a chance to end a 50-year wait for another continental title; their only previous AFCON championship came in 1976.
A Final Charged With Drama and Tension
The final itself was a match of slender margins and intense emotion. Regular time ended in a 0-0 stalemate, as both teams battled for control in a defensive, tightly contested encounter. Neither side could break the deadlock within 90 minutes, setting the stage for extra time.
Before that, however, the game produced one of its most controversial and talked-about moments. Deep into stoppage time at the end of regulation, Morocco was awarded a penalty following a lengthy VAR review.
In a dramatic and unusual turn of events, Senegal’s players briefly left the pitch in protest, unhappy with the referee’s decision — a move that briefly halted play and sparked intense discussion among fans, pundits, and social media alike.
When play finally resumed, Moroccan forward Brahim Diaz stepped up to take the spot kick, but his penalty effort was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, keeping the score level and forcing the contest into extra time.
Extra Time: The Decisive Moment
Just three minutes into extra time, the breakthrough finally came. Pape Gueye, the Senegalese midfielder, produced a moment of individual brilliance. From the edge of the penalty area, Gueye unleashed a stunning left-footed strike into the top corner, leaving the Moroccan goalkeeper stranded and sending the Senegal bench and supporters into raptures.
This goal proved to be the decisive moment of the match, as Senegal held firm under mounting pressure from the hosts in the remaining stages of extra time. Morocco pushed to find an equaliser, but Senegal’s defense and Mendy’s composure between the sticks ensured that the score remained unchanged until the final whistle.
Celebration, Controversy, and Legacy
The final whistle sparked scenes of jubilation among the Senegalese players, coaching staff, and travelling supporters. Winning the AFCON on Moroccan soil, against one of the tournament favorites, was a statement of Senegal’s quality, resilience, and tactical discipline.
This triumph further cements Senegal’s position as a powerhouse in African football. They have now reached three of the last four AFCON finals, underlining their consistency and pedigree in continental competition.
Yet, the match will also be remembered for its off-pitch drama. The referee’s controversial penalty decision and the subsequent protests from Senegalese players and fans dominated headlines, raising questions about officiating, VAR protocols, and fair play in high-stakes matches.
Some moments spilled beyond the pitch. Reports emerged of heightened tensions among fans and stadium security, underscoring just how deeply national pride and passion were on display during the encounter.
Players and Coaches: Heroes of the Night
While Gueye’s extra-time winner earns him a place in Senegalese football folklore, the contributions of other players were equally vital. Goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s crucial saves kept Senegal in the match — none more important than his penalty stop against Diaz.
Veteran attacker Sadio Mané also played a key leadership role throughout the tournament and during the final, helping to rally his teammates through some of the most intense moments of the night. His influence on and off the pitch continues to define his legacy as one of Africa’s greatest footballing exports.
Coach Pape Thiaw oversaw Senegal’s campaign with tactical discipline, and while the team’s protest during the penalty controversy was bold, it highlighted the intensity of their belief and competitive spirit.
Looking Ahead: The Legacy of AFCON 2025
Senegal’s victory in the 2025 AFCON final will resonate for years to come. Not only does it mark another chapter in the nation’s footballing rise, but it also reflects the evolving landscape of African football — one where tactical intelligence, resilience, and individual quality can determine outcomes on the biggest stage.
For Morocco, the final was painful but memorable. Hosting the tournament showcased the country’s passion for the game and its capacity to deliver a major sporting spectacle. Despite coming up short, the Atlas Lions demonstrated quality and determination that will surely make them contenders in future competitions.
As the celebrations continue in Dakar and beyond, the 2025 AFCON final will be remembered not just for the result, but for the drama, controversy, emotion, and ultimately the triumph of Senegalese football — a night that captured the imagination of fans across the continent.
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