Pape Gueye fired a stunning extra-time winner as Senegal defeated host nation Morocco 1-0 on Sunday to claim the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title in a chaotic and emotionally charged final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The match was defined by controversy, crowd unrest and late drama, including a missed stoppage-time penalty by Morocco’s Brahim Diaz moments before Gueye delivered the decisive blow. Senegal secured their second continental crown and their third final appearance in the last four AFCON tournaments.
After 90 tense minutes ended scoreless, Gueye struck in the opening period of extra time, driving toward the edge of the box before unleashing an unstoppable right-footed shot into the top-right corner. The goal silenced the partisan crowd and completed a remarkable swing of momentum following the penalty drama late in regulation.
Morocco had a golden opportunity to clinch the title in stoppage time when referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded a penalty after a VAR review determined that Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf had fouled Diaz inside the area. Diaz attempted a Panenka-style chip, but Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy calmly caught the effort, preserving the deadlock.
The decision sparked protests from the Senegal bench and players, who briefly walked off the field under instructions from coach Pape Thiaw. The delay lasted more than 15 minutes, during which scuffles reportedly broke out in the Senegal supporters’ section. One steward was carried off the field following the disturbance before play resumed.
Earlier, both teams traded chances in an intense but cautious first half. Gueye came close in the sixth minute with a header saved by Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, while Ismael Saibari and Ayoub El Kaabi narrowly missed for the hosts. Iliman Ndiaye also forced a strong save from Bounou late in the half as the teams went into the break tied 0-0.
Morocco pressed in the second half through Abde Ezzalzouli, who twice failed to convert from promising positions, including a close-range effort that was saved by Mendy in the 81st minute. Senegal thought they had broken through in stoppage time when Abdoulaye Seck scored, but the goal was disallowed for an infringement in the buildup.
Moments later came the controversial penalty decision that nearly swung the match in Morocco’s favor.
Instead, Senegal capitalized in extra time. Gueye’s strike proved decisive, and the Lions of Teranga managed the closing minutes with composure to lift the trophy once again. Morocco, meanwhile, extended their wait for a continental title to more than five decades.
Mendy was instrumental in the victory, highlighted by his decisive penalty save, while captain Sadio Mane was credited for calming his teammates during the protests and encouraging them to return to the pitch.
For Morocco, Diaz endured a painful night. The Real Madrid forward had been among the tournament’s standout performers but will be remembered for the missed penalty that denied the hosts a historic triumph.
The victory reinforces Senegal’s status as one of Africa’s dominant footballing nations, while Morocco will be left to reflect on another near miss on home soil.
