Senegal were crowned champions of Africa once again after Pape Gueye’s extra-time strike secured a dramatic victory over Morocco in a chaotic Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat.
The decisive moment came just four minutes into extra time, with Gueye finding the net to hand the West Africans their second AFCON crown. But the match will be remembered as much for the turmoil that preceded the goal as for the football itself.
Tempers flared at the end of normal time after a VAR review awarded Morocco a penalty deep into stoppage time. The decision sparked angry scenes on the touchline and in the stands, with Senegal players briefly leaving the pitch and supporters clashing with security as they attempted to enter the field.
When order was eventually restored, Brahim Díaz stepped up with the chance to end Morocco’s 50-year wait for continental glory with what was effectively the final kick of the game. Under immense pressure after the lengthy delay, Díaz attempted a panenka penalty — a decision that proved costly. Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy held his nerve, stayed on his line, and gathered the ball with ease, keeping his side alive.
The first 90 minutes had been largely short on clear-cut chances, and the chaotic scenes offered an unfortunate backdrop for a tournament Morocco had hoped would showcase its readiness to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
After Senegal took the lead in extra time, Morocco pushed desperately for an equaliser. Opportunities did emerge, the closest coming when Nayef Aguerd thundered a header against the crossbar from a corner. But it was not to be.
As rain poured down on Rabat, Morocco’s hopes of lifting their first AFCON trophy since 1976 faded away, while Senegal celebrated another historic triumph on the continental stage.
