Senegal were crowned champions of Africa after edging hosts Morocco 1–0 in a dramatic Africa Cup of Nations final decided in extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
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The tightly contested final finished goalless after 90 minutes, with both sides cancelling each other out in a tense encounter marked by controversy and high emotion.
Senegal thought they had taken the lead in regulation time, only for the goal to be ruled out. Moments later, Morocco were awarded a penalty following a contentious decision, but Brahim Díaz failed to convert from the spot.
The sequence of events sparked furious protests from the Senegalese players, who briefly walked off the pitch, leading to a delay of about 20 minutes before play resumed.
The deadlock was finally broken early in extra time when Pape Gueye unleashed a thunderous strike that beat the Moroccan goalkeeper, sending the Senegal bench into wild celebration and silencing the home crowd.
Morocco pushed forward in search of an equaliser for the remainder of extra time, but Senegal’s defence held firm to preserve their slim advantage until the final whistle.
The victory secures Senegal’s second Africa Cup of Nations title, adding to the trophy they won in 2021, and further cements their status as one of the continent’s dominant football forces.
For Morocco, it was another heartbreaking final, as they continue their wait for a first AFCON crown since 1976 despite hosting the tournament.
