Senegal have won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a tense and dramatic final against host nation Morocco. The match was filled with controversy, late drama, and strong emotions before Senegal finally secured victory in extra time.
The AFCON final ended 1–0 in favour of Senegal after extra time, giving the West African nation their second Africa Cup of Nations title.
The game was locked at 0–0 deep into stoppage time when the biggest controversy of the night occurred. In the 98th minute, Morocco were awarded a penalty after Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf brought down Brahim Diaz inside the box.
The decision came after referee Jean Jacques Ndala reviewed the incident using VAR. Senegal’s head coach, Pape Thiaw, was visibly upset by the call and attempted to lead his players off the pitch in protest.
Earlier, Senegal had a goal ruled out moments before the penalty decision. Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr had scored from close range, but the referee disallowed the goal after ruling that Abdoulaye Seck had fouled Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi in the build-up.
When play resumed, Brahim Diaz stepped up to take the penalty for Morocco. He attempted a panenka-style kick, but Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy made a crucial save to keep the score level.
Mendy briefly walked towards the dressing room as tensions rose, but he later returned to the pitch. Team captain Sadio Mane was seen urging his teammates to remain calm and finish the match.
Shortly after the penalty miss, the referee blew the final whistle for normal time, sending the game into extra time.
Senegal wasted no time in extra time. Just four minutes into the first period, Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal, breaking the deadlock and putting Senegal ahead.
Morocco pushed for an equaliser but could not find a way past Senegal’s defence. When the final whistle was blown, Senegal were confirmed as AFCON champions.
This victory marks Senegal’s second Africa Cup of Nations triumph, confirming their status as one of Africa’s strongest football nations. The win also highlights the team’s resilience, especially after surviving late controversy and pressure in front of a hostile home crowd.
Despite the disputes and tense moments, Senegal held their nerve, defended well, and took their chance when it mattered most.
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Their AFCON victory will be remembered as one of the most dramatic finals in the tournament’s history.
