Senegal Claim Dramatic AFCON Title After Controversial Final Win Over Morocco
RABAT, 21 January 2026 – The Lions of Teranga are champions of Africa once more. Senegal secured their second Africa Cup of Nations title in a tense and tumultuous final on Sunday, defeating host nation Morocco 1-0 after extra time at a packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. The match was decided by Pape Gueye’s superb 94th-minute strike but will be remembered for a late penalty drama that saw the Senegalese squad stage a remarkable walk-off protest.
A Final of High Drama and Controversy
The 2025 AFCON final delivered a spectacle fraught with tension. After 90 minutes of goalless, evenly-matched football, the match exploded in stoppage time. First, a Senegal goal was controversially disallowed for a foul in the build-up. Minutes later, Moroccan forward Brahim Díaz was awarded a penalty after a VAR review for a holding offence by Senegalese defender El Hadji Malick Diouf.
Incensed by the decision, the entire Senegalese team, led by coach Pape Thiaw, left the pitch in protest. The match was suspended for approximately 14 minutes as captain Sadio Mané reportedly pleaded with his teammates in the dressing room to return. Upon their return, goalkeeper Édouard Mendy was booked for delay, but he had the final say, saving Díaz’s audacious Panenka-style penalty kick to send the game into extra time.
Four minutes into the added period, midfielder Pape Gueye settled the affair. Collecting the ball just inside the area, he unleashed a left-footed rocket into the top corner, leaving Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou with no chance. Senegal then defended resolutely to see out the victory and spark wild celebrations.
Key Match Facts & Statistics
| Statistic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Senegal 1 – 0 Morocco (A.E.T.) |
| Match Winner | Pape Gueye (94′) |
| Venue | Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat |
| Possession | 50% – 50% |
| Total Shots | Senegal 14 – 21 Morocco |
| Penalty Drama | Brahim Díaz miss saved by Édouard Mendy (90+21′) |
| Senegal’s AFCON Titles | 2 (2021, 2025) |
Historical Context and Fallout
The victory cements Senegal’s status as an African football powerhouse, winning their second title in three editions. For Morocco, the dream of a first AFCON crown since 1976 on home soil ended in bitter disappointment. The match’s controversial events have sparked significant fallout, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino criticising Senegal’s walk-off as “unacceptable” and the Moroccan football federation reportedly considering legal action. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has launched disciplinary investigations into the conduct of the Senegalese side.
Historically, Morocco has dominated this fixture, with 17 wins to Senegal’s 7 prior to this final. However, Senegal’s triumph on the biggest stage marks a significant shift, proving their ability to win under immense pressure against a continental rival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Senegal players walk off the pitch?
The Senegalese team left the field in protest after a penalty was awarded to Morocco’s Brahim Díaz in the eighth minute of second-half stoppage time. They were furious with the decision made by referee Jean-Jacques Ndala following a VAR review, believing it to be unjust.
Who saved the crucial penalty for Senegal?
Goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, who was later named Player of the Match, saved Brahim Díaz’s chipped “Panenka” penalty. The save occurred nearly 21 minutes after the end of regular time, following the prolonged delay caused by the walk-off.
How many times has Senegal won the Africa Cup of Nations?
With this victory, Senegal has now won the AFCON twice. Their first title came in the 2021 edition (played in 2022), where they also beat a North African side, Egypt, on penalties.