Chaos, walk-off and glory: Senegal stun Morocco to win AFCON 2025 in dramatic final

Senegal were crowned champions of Africa after a chaotic and unforgettable AFCON 2025 final, overcoming hosts Morocco 1-0 after extra time in Rabat. The match will be remembered not only for the decisive goal but also for extraordinary scenes that saw Senegal briefly walk off the pitch in protest.

The final was tense and tightly contested, with both sides struggling to create clear chances during normal time. Defensive discipline dominated proceedings, reflecting the quality and caution of two of Africa’s highest-ranked teams. As the match edged toward penalties, the drama escalated dramatically. Deep into stoppage time, the referee awarded Morocco a penalty following a VAR review after Brahim Diaz was pulled down during a corner kick. The decision enraged the Senegalese players and coaching staff, who believed a legitimate Senegal goal had earlier been ruled out unfairly.

In protest, Senegal coach Pape Bouna Thiaw ordered his team to leave the field. Players, officials and referees exchanged heated words as confusion spread across the stadium. It was captain Sadio Mane who eventually calmed the situation and persuaded his teammates to return, allowing the final to continue.

When play resumed, Morocco were handed a golden opportunity to win the tournament. Diaz stepped up to take the penalty but opted for a panenka attempt. His soft effort was comfortably caught by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, stunning the home crowd and shifting momentum decisively.

That miss appeared to galvanise Senegal. With renewed belief, they entered extra time looking sharper and more aggressive. Just four minutes into the additional period, the breakthrough arrived. Mane won possession in midfield and combined with Idrissa Gana Gueye, who released Pape Gueye into space.

The Villarreal midfielder showed strength and composure as he held off Achraf Hakimi before unleashing a superb strike into the top corner, leaving Yassine Bounou with no chance. The goal silenced the stadium and sent the Senegal bench into celebration.

Morocco pushed desperately for an equaliser, and they came agonisingly close when Nayef Aguerd headed against the crossbar in the second half of extra time. Despite sustained pressure, they were unable to force penalties.

The final whistle confirmed Senegal’s second AFCON title in three editions, further cementing their status as a dominant force in African football. Remarkably, it was the first goal Senegal had ever scored in an AFCON final, having failed to find the net in their previous appearances at this stage.

For Morocco, the defeat extended a painful wait for continental glory on home soil. Many supporters left the stadium early, devastated by a night that promised triumph but delivered heartbreak.

While Senegal celebrated, questions are expected to follow regarding the conduct of players, officials and organisers. Yet amid the controversy, the Lions of Teranga once again proved their resilience, composure and ability to rise in the biggest moments.