Senegal Triumphs Over Morocco in Chaotic AFCON 2025 Final. Rabat, Morocco — Senegal clinched the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 title against hosts Morocco in a dramatic and controversial match, ending in a 1-0 victory after extra-time.
The final, played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, was marked by a walk — off protest by Senegal and a last-gasp penalty miss by Morocco’s Brahim Diaz.
The match was initially overshadowed by a penalty awarded against Senegal after a VAR check by Congolese referee Jean — Jacques Ndala, following a tackle on Morocco’s Diaz by Senegal full back El Hadji Malick Diouf during a corner kick. Senegal coach Pape Bouna Thiaw ordered his team off the field in protest, only for Sadio Mane to persuade them to return. Morocco’s Diaz then fluffed his lines with a weak Panenka-style penalty in the 90th minute, allowing Senegal to hold on for the win.
Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal in the 94th minute, stunning the home crowd and securing Senegal’s second AFCON title in the past three editions. Despite the controversy, Senegal’s victory continues their strong showing at the tournament, having won their first title in Yaounde in 2022.
The win also sets the stage for their participation in the upcoming World Cup in the United States.
Morocco’s defeat in the final extends their poor record at the AFCON, where they had previously won the tournament only once, 50 years ago. Further details about potential investigations into the game’s events are expected to focus on the conduct of the Senegal team and their fans, as well as any shortcomings by Moroccan organizers.
The match, which was low on goalmouth action, is a testament to the defensive strength of the top teams in Africa, as per FIFA rankings.
Sources close to the matter indicate that Senegal’s actions during the game will be a significant point of interest in any subsequent investigations.
The incident is sure to spark discussions about sportsmanship and the role of technology in officiating. Senegal’s Iliman Ndiaye was denied by goalkeeper Yassine Bounou in the first half, while Morocco nearly scored before the hour mark but saw Ayoub El Kaabi miss from a close-range chance.
The drama unfolded in the second half of extra time, with Senegal surviving the penalty before Gueye sealed the win.
The situation remains developing, and further information is expected to emerge as the implications of the match’s events are assessed.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 4*
