Senegal were crowned champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a thrilling 1–0 victory over hosts Morocco in a dramatic final played on Sunday night in Rabat.
The much-anticipated showdown lived up to expectations as Africa’s two highest-ranked teams went head-to-head in front of a passionate home crowd. Morocco, playing on familiar ground and chasing continental glory, faced a confident Senegal side determined to defend their status among Africa’s elite.
From kickoff, the intensity was evident. Both teams approached the match with caution, aware that a single mistake could decide the final. Senegal relied on their physical strength, tactical discipline and quick transitions, while Morocco dominated possession and looked to unlock the defence through technical build-up play.
Despite the high tempo, the opening half produced no goals. Chances were limited as both backlines remained organised and compact. Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy was called into action on a few occasions, calmly dealing with crosses and long-range efforts, while Morocco’s defence successfully contained the threat of Ismaila Sarr and Boulaye Dia.
The first half ended goalless, reflecting the evenly matched nature of the contest.
After the break, Morocco increased the pressure, pushing higher up the pitch and forcing Senegal to defend deep for long periods. The Atlas Lions believed they had taken the lead midway through the second half when Ismaila Sarr headed the ball into the net during a scramble in the box. However, celebrations were cut short as the referee ruled out the goal for a foul on Achraf Hakimi, a decision that sparked heated reactions from the Senegalese bench and supporters.
As the match progressed, tension continued to rise. Morocco dominated possession, but Senegal remained dangerous on the counterattack, with their midfield trio working tirelessly to block passing lanes and disrupt rhythm.
With the clock ticking toward full time, it appeared the final would end 0–0 and head straight into extra time. Drama, however, unfolded deep into stoppage time.
In the 97th minute, the referee awarded Morocco a controversial penalty following a challenge in the box. The decision caused chaos as Senegalese players protested fiercely, eventually walking off the pitch in frustration before being persuaded to return.
After several minutes of delay, Brahim Diaz stepped up to take the decisive kick. The Moroccan midfielder attempted a delicate panenka, but the effort lacked conviction. Edouard Mendy read it perfectly, remaining calm to save the penalty and keep Senegal alive in the final.
The missed opportunity proved costly.
Moments later, the match moved into extra time, where Senegal quickly seized control. Just minutes into the first half of extra time, Pape Gueye delivered the defining moment of the final. Receiving the ball at the edge of the box, the midfielder unleashed a sublime left-footed strike that curled beyond the Moroccan goalkeeper and into the net.
The goal silenced the Rabat crowd and sent the Senegalese bench into wild celebration.
Morocco pushed desperately for an equaliser, throwing men forward and applying heavy pressure. Yet Senegal’s defence stood firm, led by commanding performances from Kalidou Koulibaly and Abdou Diallo, who repelled cross after cross under immense pressure.
As fatigue set in, the West Africans managed the game expertly, slowing the tempo and frustrating the hosts. When the final whistle blew, Senegalese players collapsed to the turf in celebration, having secured one of the most dramatic AFCON titles in recent history.
The victory marked another historic achievement for Senegal, reinforcing their reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent footballing nations. Their journey throughout the tournament was defined by resilience, tactical discipline and collective belief.
For Morocco, the defeat was heartbreaking. Hosting the tournament and reaching the final raised hopes of continental glory, but missed chances and fine margins ultimately denied them. Despite the disappointment, their performance throughout the competition showcased the strength and progress of North African football.
Edouard Mendy’s heroics will be remembered as a turning point in the final. His crucial penalty save not only preserved Senegal’s hopes but shifted momentum irreversibly in their favour. Pape Gueye’s extra-time strike will also go down as one of the most iconic goals in AFCON final history.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final will be remembered for its intensity, controversy, emotion and unforgettable drama — a true reflection of African football at its finest.
Senegal now lift the prestigious continental trophy once again, celebrating a triumph built on patience, courage and belief on the grandest stage of African football.
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