AfriPulse
Senegal secured the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy after a dramatic 1-0 win over hosts Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat on Sunday.
Pape Gueye’s extra-time strike proved decisive, giving the Teranga Lions their second continental crown.
Late drama and key saves
The match remained goalless through 90 minutes, with Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy denying Morocco from the penalty spot in stoppage time.
Brahim Diaz’s panenka attempt was easily saved, sending the final into extra time amid chaotic scenes as Senegal fans attempted to storm the pitch.
Senegal beat Morocco to AFCON 2025 title – Getty image
Riot police intervened, but the Teranga Lions regrouped to take the decisive moment in extra time.
Gueye secures victory
Minutes into extra time, Senegal countered swiftly, with Gueye finishing a fine move into the top corner to break the deadlock.
Morocco pressed for an equaliser but were repeatedly denied, with Bounou making key saves and the woodwork coming to the Teranga Lions’ aid.
Balanced contest despite absences
Senegal managed the win despite missing captain Kalidou Koulibaly, midfielder Habib Diarra, and right-back Krepin Diatta.
The Teranga Lions had early chances, including Pape Gueye heading over after a Lamine Camara delivery and Nicolas Jackson setting up Amadou Ndiaye, whose effort was saved.
Morocco also created opportunities, with Abde Ezzalzouli, Ismael Saibari, and Ayoub El Kaabi testing Senegal’s defence throughout the match.
The final was a tense, highly competitive affair, highlighted by physical clashes and close-range opportunities. The Atlas Lions’ hopes of winning on home soil were dashed, despite dominant periods and a late penalty opportunity.
Senegal’s resilience under pressure and clinical finishing in extra time earned them the title, while Morocco were left to rue missed chances in front of their home supporters.
Source: Gistreel | Read the Full Story…
