RABAT, Morocco — In one of the most dramatic finals in Africa Cup of Nations history, Senegal defeated host nation Morocco 1–0 after extra time to lift the coveted AFCON trophy, etched with controversy, resilience and sheer belief.
Setting the Stage: A Final Years in the Making
Morocco arrived in Rabat as the host nation with decades of ambition, seeking only their second continental title and a breakthrough moment on home soil.
The Atlas Lions, backed by an ardent crowd and a defensive record that saw them concede just one goal throughout the tournament, carried the weight of a nation longing for glory.
Senegal, meanwhile, brought the confidence of champions.
The Lions of Teranga had ended a 17-match unbeaten run en route to the final, scoring 12 goals and conceding just two.
They were determined not to repeat the pain of past finals, having won their first AFCON title only once before in 2021.
The Build-Up: Tension and Turmoil Before Kickoff
In the days leading up to the final, off-field tension simmered.
Senegal’s federation raised concerns about security and ticket allocations, while fans from both nations braced for an emotional confrontation.
Historically, Morocco had dominated the head-to-head record, winning 18 of their previous 31 meetings. But AFCON finals have their own logic — and at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the stage was set for a classic.
90 Minutes of Drama: Nerves, Near Misses, and Controversy
From kickoff, the match was cagey and competitive.
Senegal came out probing early, but Morocco defended stoutly and created chances of their own. Both sides tested each other, and the score remained level deep into stoppage time with neither side able to find the breakthrough in normal time.
Then came the flashpoint. A contentious penalty decision in added time handed Morocco a late chance to win the game, but Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy stood firm, saving Brahim Díaz’s effort from the spot under immense pressure.
The moment was a turning point — sending the match into extra time and sending waves through both dugouts.
Extra Time Heroics: Pape Gueye’s Moment of Brilliance
Just three minutes into extra time, Senegal seized their opportunity.
Midfielder Pape Gueye danced past defenders and unleashed a stunning strike from the edge of the box, bending the ball into the top corner and sending the Senegal bench into raptures.
Morocco poured forward in search of an equaliser, but Senegal’s defence, marshalled with discipline and heart, resisted every surge.
There would be no comeback. The final whistle confirmed Senegal’s triumph and crowned them Africa Cup of Nations champions once again.
