Senegal Secure Second AFCON Title After Tense Extra‑Time Victory Over Morocco

Senegal won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the second time after defeating hosts Morocco 1–0 in extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, concluding a final marked by late‑match controversy and an extended stoppage period.

Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal early in extra time, delivering a powerful left‑footed strike that settled a match already shaped by a disallowed Senegal goal and a stoppage‑time penalty awarded to Morocco following a VAR review. The penalty, taken by Morocco’s Brahim Díaz, was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, sending the match into extra time after a prolonged delay caused by protests on the pitch and in the stands.

The match’s turning point came deep into second‑half stoppage time when referee Jean‑Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty for a foul by Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf on Díaz. Senegal’s players briefly left the field in protest, citing frustration over both the penalty decision and an earlier disallowed goal for a foul in the buildup. After approximately 20 minutes, the team returned to complete the match, and Mendy saved the penalty attempt, keeping the score level.

Once in extra time, Senegal regained composure and control. Gueye’s goal in the 94th minute proved decisive, and Morocco were unable to find an equaliser despite strong home support and sustained pressure.

The victory marks Senegal’s second AFCON championship, following their first title in 2022. For Morocco, the result extends a decades‑long pursuit of a second continental trophy, with their last AFCON win dating back nearly 50 years.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) confirmed it is reviewing footage of the match to assess the conduct of players, staff, and supporters after both teams were involved in confrontations and protests surrounding the late penalty decision. FIFA President Gianni Infantino also criticised the “unacceptable scenes” and emphasised the need for respect toward match officials and tournament regulations.

Despite the controversy, Senegal’s win reinforces their status as one of Africa’s leading football nations, while the tournament’s conclusion raises ongoing questions about officiating standards, VAR implementation, and crowd management at major continental competitions.