Senegal were crowned Africa Cup of Nations champions for a second time after edging hosts Morocco 1–0 after extra time in a dramatic and deeply controversial final that descended into chaos at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The showpiece occasion was overshadowed by extraordinary scenes late in normal time, when Senegal temporarily refused to continue playing following a stoppage-time penalty awarded to Morocco, moments after a Senegal goal had been disallowed.
Both sides approached the final cautiously, aware of the fine margins at stake. Morocco enjoyed periods of controlled possession, while Senegal relied on their physical strength, pace and defensive organisation, with chances at a premium throughout a tense and evenly balanced contest.
The match exploded into controversy in the closing moments of regulation time. Senegal thought they had taken the lead when Ismaïla Sarr bundled the ball home from close range, only for referee Jean Jacques Ndala to rule out the goal for a foul in the build-up. The decision infuriated the Senegal bench, with head coach Pape Thiaw visibly incensed.
Minutes later, Ndala was advised by VAR to review a challenge by El Hadji Malick Diouf on Brahim Díaz inside the penalty area. After consulting the pitchside monitor, the referee pointed to the spot in the 98th minute. That call proved the breaking point. Senegal’s players, led by Thiaw, walked off the pitch in protest as tempers flared in the stands, prompting a lengthy delay of around 17 minutes.
Eventually, following intervention from senior players — notably Sadio Mané — Senegal returned to the field to complete the match. Real Madrid forward Díaz, Morocco’s talisman and tournament top scorer, stepped up with the last kick of normal time and attempted a Panenka penalty. Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy stayed composed, catching the effort with ease before the referee immediately blew for full time.
With emotions still running high, extra time began, and Senegal quickly regained their focus. Just four minutes into the additional period, Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye broke the deadlock, finishing decisively to give the Lions of Teranga a priceless lead.
From there, Senegal defended resolutely, absorbing pressure and denying Morocco any clear route back into the game. The hosts pushed forward in desperation but were met by a disciplined Senegal back line and a confident Mendy, who marshalled his defence superbly.
At the final whistle, Senegal celebrated a hard-fought triumph that sealed their second AFCON title in five years, while Morocco were left heartbroken, denied a first continental crown since 1976 on home soil.
Post-match, Morocco coach Walid Regragui criticised Senegal’s decision to leave the pitch, describing it as “shameful”, while Thiaw later apologised for the incident, admitting emotions had boiled over in the heat of the moment. Senegal’s senior players, led by Mané, stressed the importance of finishing the match and preserving the image of African football.
Ultimately, the final will be remembered as much for its chaos as for its football, but history will record Senegal as champions once again, holding their nerve amid turmoil to lift the Africa Cup of Nations trophy.
Senegal vs Morocco Starting XI
Senegal (Home)
Coach: Pape Thiaw | Formation: 4-2-2-2
XI: É. Mendy; A. Mendy, M. Sarr, M. Niakhaté, E. Diouf; I. Gueye (c), L. Camara; P. Gueye, I. Ndiaye; S. Mané, N. Jackson.
Subs: Y. Diouf, M. Camara, P. Ciss, B. Dia, H. Diallo, K. Diatta, M. Diaw, I. Jakobs, I. Mbaye, C. Ndiaye, O. Niang, C. Sabaly, P. Sarr, I. Sarr, A. Seck.
Morocco (Away)
Coach: Walid Regragui | Formation: 4-3-3
XI: Y. Bounou; N. Mazraoui, A. Masina, N. Aguerd, A. Hakimi (c); I. Saibari, N. El Aynaoui, A. Ezzalzouli; Brahim Díaz, A. El Kaabi, B. El Khannouss.
Subs: I. Akhomach, E. Al Harrar, S. Amrabat, A. Aït Boudlal, Y. Belammari, M. Chibi, J. El Yamiq, Y. En-Nesyri, H. Igamane, M. El Kajoui, S. Rahimi, A. Salah-Eddine, R. Saïss, C. Talbi, O. Targhalline.
Officials:
Ref: Jean Jacques Ndala Ngambo | VAR: Pierre Atcho
ARs: Guylain Bongele Ngila, Mwanya Gradel Mbilizi | 4th: Abongile Tom | AVAR: Letticia Vianna
