Senegal won the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON defeating Morocco in an emotional and intensely competitive affair, marked by controversy, protests, and dramatic moments as the two African powerhouses battle for continental glory.
After a tense and goalless 90 minutes, the match remained locked at 0–0, with both teams exhibiting disciplined defending and cautious attacking play. As regulation time drew to a close, the game’s defining twist came from a controversial decision by match officials.
Late in stoppage time, VAR intervened to award Morocco a penalty, a call that ignited anger from the Senegalese squad. The decision followed another VAR ruling earlier in the match that had disallowed a promising Senegalese goal — a combination of decisions that frustrated the West African side.
In a dramatic protest of the late penalty decision, Senegal’s players briefly walked off the pitch, expressing their dissent and challenging the officiating. The incident brought the match to a halt for several minutes as players, coaches, and officials engaged in intense discussions on the pitch. Only after appeals from Senegalese captain Sadio Mané did the team return to resume play.
When action resumed, Morocco’s penalty attempt saw Brahim Díaz step up, only for his Panenka-style effort to be comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy — keeping the score level and pushing the match into extra time.
Early in extra time, Senegal seized the initiative, with Pape Gueye scoring a crucial goal in the 94th minute to give the Lions of Teranga the lead — the first time Morocco has trailed in this tournament.
The final, played at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, was overshadowed by contentious refereeing decisions and emotional responses from both camps. What began as a tactical and measured encounter quickly escalated into one of the most talked-about matches in recent AFCON history.
Despite relentless pressure by Morocco in the second half of extra time, they were unable to move the ball behind the Senegalese goalkeeper.