Senegal Crowned African Cup of Nations Champions After Dramatic Win Over Morocco

Senegal Beats Morocco 1-0 to Win 2025 AFCON Title (AET)

RABAT, MOROCCO — In a thrilling and highly controversial climax to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final played on January 18, 2026, Senegal emerged as champions by defeating host nation Morocco 1-0 after extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. 

In a final that will be remembered for its intensity and dramatic twists, Senegal secured their second AFCON title with a decisive extra-time goal by Pape Gueye. The match was marked by a stoppage-time penalty controversy that nearly saw the Senegalese team walk off the pitch in protest before play resumed and eventually moved into extra time. 

Match Summary

The final saw Senegal and Morocco locked at 0-0 in regulation time, despite Morocco’s dominance in possession and several chances to break the deadlock. The match descended into turmoil in stoppage time when referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a contentious penalty following a VAR review — a decision that sparked fierce protests from the Senegalese bench and players. 

Senegal briefly left the pitch in protest but returned after intervention from team leaders. Morocco’s Brahim Díaz stepped up for the penalty but saw his attempted Panenka easily saved by Senegal’s goalkeeper Édouard Mendy. With play resuming, extra time became inevitable. 

In the 94th minute, midfielder Pape Gueye netted the winning goal, sealing a hard-fought victory for Senegal. Despite Morocco’s best efforts to find an equalizer late in extra time, Senegal’s defense held firm to secure the historic win. 

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Historic Achievement

This victory marks Senegal’s second Africa Cup of Nations title, adding to their previous triumph at the 2021 AFCON. The Teranga Lions’ success underscores their growing stature in African football, particularly in high-pressure matches against elite continental sides. 

Morocco’s heartache continues, as the host nation — playing in front of a passionate home crowd and aiming to win their first AFCON trophy since 1976 — fell just short despite notable performances throughout the tournament.