Senegal win Afcon 2025 after chaotic final against Morocco
Senegal lifted the Africa Cup of Nations trophy for the second time after a dramatic and controversial final against hosts Morocco in Rabat. Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye struck the decisive goal in the fourth minute of extra time, sealing a 1-0 win and a second title in five years for the Lions of Teranga.
The match descended into chaos late in stoppage time. Referee Jean Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty in the 98th minute after VAR advised him to review El Hadji Malick Diouf’s challenge on Brahim Diaz. Furious at the decision, Senegal coach Pape Thiaw ordered his players off the pitch, sparking a 17‑minute delay.
Sadio Mane refused to leave and urged his teammates to return. When play resumed, Diaz’s attempted Panenka was easily saved by Edouard Mendy, who had briefly gone to the dressing room before rejoining the team. Moments later, Gueye produced a stunning solo strike to secure victory.
Morocco coach Walid Regragui branded Senegal’s actions “shameful” while FIFA president Gianni Infantino condemned the “ugly scenes,” insisting violence and walk‑offs “cannot be tolerated in our sport.” Thiaw later apologised, admitting his decision to leave the pitch was wrong and born of frustration after Ismaila Sarr’s earlier goal was disallowed for a foul in the build‑up.
The fallout continued off the pitch. Senegal’s federation had already raised concerns about security and logistics before the final, claiming their players were put at risk upon arrival in Rabat. The controversy added to weeks of debate over refereeing and VAR, with accusations that hosts Morocco benefited from favourable calls.
Despite the turmoil, Mane emerged as a calming figure, persuading teammates to finish the game and appealing to fans to stay peaceful. Mendy praised the squad’s unity, while Gueye admitted the team felt injustice but credited Mane’s leadership for their regrouping.
Observers lamented the chaotic ending to what had been a well‑organised tournament, with Morocco praised for infrastructure and hospitality. Yet the extraordinary scenes before Diaz’s penalty may overshadow the competition’s legacy, especially with Morocco set to co‑host the World Cup in 2030.
Senegal’s triumph adds another chapter to their growing continental pedigree, while Morocco’s wait for a second Afcon title, last achieved in 1976, continues.