RABAT-(MaraviPost)-Senegal were crowned Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 champions after edging hosts Morocco 1–0 after extra time in a tense, dramatic and highly controversial final played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
The final produced high drama from the opening stages, with Senegal showing attacking intent early on. Pape Gueye, Iliman Ndiaye and Ibrahim Mbaye all came close to opening the scoring but were repeatedly denied by Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, who delivered a string of outstanding saves.
At the other end, Edouard Mendy was equally impressive, ensuring the score remained goalless at halftime.
The second half followed a similar pattern as both sides pushed for a breakthrough but chances were limited and tension inside the stadium continued to rise.
Controversy erupted late in 97 minutes when VAR awarded Morocco a penalty after Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf was adjudged to have fouled Brahim Diaz inside the box.
The decision sparked angry reactions from the Senegal camp with Senegal players briefly walking off the pitch in protest before returning to continue the match.
The pressure intensified as Diaz, who finished the tournament as 2025 AFCON top scorer with five goals, stepped up to take the penalty.
However, Mendy produced a brilliant save, denying the Atlas Lions and forcing the match into extra time.
Senegal finally broke the deadlock early in extra time when Pape Gueye calmly found the back of the net, handing the Lions of Teranga a crucial 1–0 lead.
The goal was historic, as it marked the first open play goal conceded by Yassine Bounou against Senegal.
Morocco pushed forward desperately in search of an equaliser, but Senegal remained disciplined and resolute at the back.
Bounou once again prevented further damage by denying Cherif Ndiaye and Gueye from completing a brace.
At the final whistle, Senegal erupted in celebration, sealing their second AFCON title, having previously lifted the trophy in 2021.
While the final will be remembered for VAR controversy, protests and heated debate, it ultimately belonged to Senegal, whose composure under pressure delivered another historic triumph for the Lions of Teranga.
