Senegal clinched the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title after a tense 1-0 victory over hosts Morocco in a dramatic final played on Sunday night in Rabat.
The showdown between Africa’s two highest-ranked teams lived up to expectations, with both sides locked in a fiercely contested battle. The first half ended goalless, as neither team was able to find a breakthrough despite several promising moments.
The second half appeared to be heading towards another stalemate until controversy struck. Senegal thought they had taken the lead through Ismaila Sarr, but his header was ruled out for a foul on Achraf Hakimi.
Drama intensified in the 97th minute when Morocco were awarded a highly contentious penalty. The decision sparked protests from Senegalese players, who briefly walked off the pitch amid rising tension. When play resumed, Brahim Diaz attempted a delicate panenka, but his effort was comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Eduoard Mendy.
With the match pushed into extra time, Senegal finally found the decisive moment. In the first half of extra time, Pape Gueye produced a sublime left-footed strike to stun the Atlas Lions and secure the championship for the West African side.
The hard-fought victory crowned Senegal as champions of the 2025 AFCON, bringing an unforgettable and dramatic final to a close.
