Senegal crowned Africa Cup of Nations champions after 1-0 extra‑time win over Morocco

Senegal have been crowned Africa Cup of Nations champions for the second time, securing a dramatic 1–0 victory over hosts Morocco after extra time in the final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

In a final that ebbed and flowed with tension and controversy, neither side could break the deadlock in 90 minutes.

Morocco, seeking their first continental title since 1976, and Senegal, the now defending champions, both battled for supremacy in a cagey first half with limited clear openings.

In a match reported by the Guardian, deep into stoppage time, referee Jean‑Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a controversial penalty after a VAR review judged Senegal’s El Hadji Malick Diouf to have fouled Brahim Díaz in the box, a decision that sparked outrage from the Senegal camp and a chaotic scene inside the stadium.

In protest, Senegal’s coach Pape Thiaw ordered his players off the pitch, leading to a delay of over 14 minutes before play resumed.

Amid widespread dissent, Díaz stepped up to take the penalty but his attempt was easily saved by Senegal goalkeeper, Édouard Mendy.

Extra time and the decisive moment
With the score still 0–0 after 90 minutes, the game entered extra time.

Just four minutes into the first period, Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye produced a moment of individual brilliance dancing past defenders and unleashing a thunderous strike from outside the box that flew into the top corner to give Senegal the lead.

Morocco pressed for an equaliser, with one close effort from a header smashing against the crossbar, but they could not find a way past Senegal’s defence and the score remained 1–0.

Senegal reached the final after a 1–0 semi‑final win over Egypt, secured by a late Sadio Mané goal.

Hosts Morocco booked their place in the final by defeating Nigeria on penalties after a goalless draw.

As the final whistle sounded, Senegal’s players erupted in celebration, securing their second AFCON title, the first since their maiden triumph in 2021.

Contributed by Emmanuel Lungu

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