Senegal Crowned AFCON 2025 Champions in Dramatic Extra-Time Victory Over Hosts Morocco

In one of the most chaotic and unforgettable finals in Africa Cup of Nations history, Senegal defeated host nation Morocco 1-0 after extra time to claim their second continental title on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

The match remained goalless through 90 tense minutes, highlighted by a highly controversial late penalty awarded to Morocco in stoppage time. After a VAR review, referee Jean-Jacques Ndala ruled a foul on Brahim Díaz by Senegal's El Hadji Malick Diouf. Díaz's attempted Panenka chip was comfortably saved by Édouard Mendy, sparking outrage among Senegalese players who briefly walked off the pitch in protest amid a lengthy delay and heated scenes.

Play resumed, and the game headed to extra time. Just four minutes into the additional period, Pape Gueye produced a moment of brilliance. Receiving a pass from Idrissa Gana Gueye, the Villarreal midfielder surged forward, evaded defenders, and unleashed a powerful left-footed strike into the top corner past Yassine Bounou for the decisive goal in the 94th minute.

Senegal's resilient defense, led by Mendy’s heroics, held firm to secure the win despite intense Moroccan pressure. This triumph marks the Teranga Lions' second AFCON success following their 2021 victory, cementing their status among Africa's elite while ending Morocco's hopes of ending a long wait for the title on home soil.

The final will be remembered not only for Gueye's winner but also for the extraordinary drama, refereeing debates, and emotional intensity that defined an unforgettable showdown.