In a breathtaking finale filled with controversy, walk-offs, and sheer brilliance, Senegal stunned Morocco to claim the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy dramatically.
The Lions of Teranga defeated the host nation 1-0 in extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on January 18, 2026, securing their second continental crown and leaving Morocco’s 50-year wait for AFCON glory intact.
The match had been a tense, tactical battle between two of Africa’s powerhouses. Senegal, led by veteran star Sadio Mané, showcased their defensive resilience and clinical edge, while hosts Morocco, riding high on home support and stars like Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Díaz, dominated possession but struggled to break through Edouard Mendy’s solid goalkeeping.
The drama began after Senegal thought they had won the trophy when Abdoulaye Seck headed a corner against the post, and Ismaila Sarr tapped in the rebound.
The Senegalese players erupted in jubilation, but the referee, Jean-Jacques Ndala, had already blown his whistle for a controversial foul. The goal was disallowed.
A few minutes later, there was a drama at the other end. After a lengthy VAR review, the referee awarded a soft penalty for a foul on Morocco’s Brahim Díaz by Senegal’s El Hadji Malick Diouf.
Infuriated by the decision of the disallowed goal and the awarded penalty, Senegal coach Pape Thiaw ordered his team off the pitch. The players storm into the tunnel.
After a 15-minute delay, Sadio Mané convinced his teammates to return. Brahim Díaz steps up for the most high-stakes penalty in Moroccan history. He attempted an audacious Panenka chip, but Édouard Mendy didn’t move. He stood his ground and saved the penalty.
Just minutes into extra time, Pape Gueye delivered the decisive blow. The midfielder unleashed a thunderous strike from distance that rocketed into the top corner, giving Senegal an unassailable lead and igniting wild celebrations among the Teranga Lions supporters.
The goal sealed the 2025 AFCON trophy for Senegal. This victory also marks Senegal’s second AFCON title after their 2021 success, solidifying their status as one of the continent’s dominant forces in recent years.
For Morocco, the defeat was a cruel twist after an unbeaten run through the tournament. The Atlas Lions, who had reached their first final since 2004, will rue missed opportunities and the late penalty miss that shifted momentum irreversibly.
Below is the list of the individual awards for the 2025 AFCON;
Best Goalkeeper of the tournament: Yassine Bounou
Morocco won the Fair Play Team of the tournament.
Golden boot: Brahim Díaz
Man of the tournament: Sadio Mané
