SENEGAL WINS AFRICAN CUP OF NATION AFTER CHAOTIC FINAL AGAINST HOST MOROCCO

SENEGAL WINS AFRICAN CUP OF NATION AFTER CHAOTIC FINAL AGAINST HOST MOROCCO

Senegal has emerged victorious in the AFCON 2025 final, defeating host Morocco 1-0 in a dramatic match that went into extra time. The winning goal was scored by Pape Gueye in the 94th minute, a stunning strike from the edge of the box that left the Moroccan goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou, with no chance.

The match was marked by controversy, with Senegal's players walking off the pitch in protest after Morocco was awarded a penalty in stoppage time. The penalty was taken by Brahim Diaz, who attempted a Panenka-style chip, but it was easily saved by Senegal's goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy. After a 14-minute delay, Senegal returned to the pitch, and Gueye's goal ultimately secured their second AFCON title.

Morocco's coach, Walid Regragui, accepted responsibility for the defeat, saying that his team had done their best under pressure. Senegal's captain, Idrissa Gueye, praised his team's discipline and resilience, saying that they had deserved the win.

The victory marks Senegal's second AFCON title, following their win in 2021. Sadio Mane, who played a key role in the match, announced his retirement from international football after the game.