Senegal Clinch AFCON After Chaotic Final Against Morocco
Senegal have captured their second Africa Cup of Nations title in a dramatic and controversial final against hosts Morocco, a match that will be remembered as much for the chaos off the pitch as the football on it. The game remained goalless deep into extra time, but the final moments were far from ordinary. A stoppage-time penalty awarded to Morocco sparked outrage from Senegal. Head coach Pape Thiaw, still furious after an earlier disallowed goal for his team, led several players off the field in protest. Tensions soared in the stadium as fans clashed with security and the scene could only be described as chaotic.
Despite the turmoil, Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz stepped up to take the penalty. His audacious Panenka attempt, however, lacked conviction, allowing Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy to make an easy save. The moment galvanized the Senegal squad, who returned to the pitch under the guidance of former Liverpool star Sadio Mane. Four minutes into extra time, midfielder Pape Gueye struck brilliantly to secure a 1-0 victory, silencing the Moroccan crowd of over 66,000 and clinching the title.
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The tension on the field reflected a tournament filled with refereeing controversies and debates over VAR decisions. Senegal had previously expressed concerns about security and hospitality in Rabat, citing issues with fan access, hotel conditions and training facilities. This backdrop added to the drama, heightening the emotions of players and fans alike. The disallowed goal by Ismaila Sarr and the late penalty award pushed the Senegal team to their breaking point, though Mane’s leadership ensured the game continued and ultimately ended in triumph.
For Morocco, the loss is heartbreak, missing the chance to win their first AFCON title since 1976. Diaz, tournament top scorer with five goals, left the field dejected, a poignant reminder of how quickly fortunes can shift in football. Senegal, meanwhile, celebrate their second triumph in just five years, reinforcing their position as one of Africa’s top footballing nations. The victory also leaves questions about Sadio Mane’s future in the tournament, as he indicated this final might be his last AFCON appearance.
This final serves as a stark reminder of football’s unpredictability and the intense passion it evokes across the continent. Senegal’s resilience under pressure, combined with decisive leadership on the pitch, turned a potentially disastrous ending into historic glory. Viewers around the world witnessed a final that tested not just skill, but composure and character under extreme circumstances.
Stay with us for continued coverage, expert analysis and post-match reactions as the story of this unforgettable AFCON final continues to unfold.
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