Anthony Nlebem
The Teranga Lions of Senegal were crowned champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after defeating hosts Morocco 1–0 in a dramatic final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
After a tense and evenly contested encounter that ended goalless in regulation time, Senegal finally broke the deadlock in extra time through Pape Gueye, whose decisive strike sealed victory for the West Africans.
The winning goal arrived in the 94th minute when Gueye finished off a swift counterattack with a left-footed effort, sending the Senegalese players and supporters into wild celebrations.
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In the final minute of stoppage time, Morocco were awarded a penalty following a VAR review after Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf was adjudged to have pulled Brahim Díaz inside the box.
The decision sparked prolonged confusion and frustration, with Senegal’s players initially walking off the pitch in protest. After nearly 20 minutes, play eventually resumed for the penalty to be taken.
With the opportunity to score his sixth goal of the tournament and secure Morocco’s first AFCON title in almost 50 years, Díaz attempted an audacious Panenka. However, Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy calmly caught the weak effort, triggering scenes of disbelief and relief among the Senegal camp.
Senegal had earlier felt aggrieved when a potential winning goal was disallowed in the second minute of added time.
Abdoulaye Seck had headed against the post from a corner, with Ismaila Sarr nodding in the rebound, only for the effort to be ruled out for a foul.
Senegal’s resilience finally paid off as they claimed their second AFCON title, capping another memorable continental campaign and denying Morocco a long-awaited triumph on home soil.
Anthony Nlebem
Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.
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