Senegal have claimed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, defeating host nation Morocco 1-0 in a chaotic final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The match was decided in extra time, with Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye scoring the decisive goal, a powerful strike into the top corner, securing Senegal’s second continental championship.
The final was marked by unprecedented drama in second-half stoppage time, when Senegal’s players briefly walked off the pitch in protest after the referee awarded Morocco a controversial penalty following a long VAR review.
After a 15–20 minute delay, Senegal captain Sadio Mané persuaded his teammates to return. Morocco’s Brahim Díaz then stepped up to take the penalty with a Panenka, but his attempt was easily saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, extinguishing Morocco’s hopes and cementing Senegal’s victory.
The dramatic scenes highlighted both the tension and passion of AFCON 2025, with Senegal lifting the trophy amid celebrations and controversy alike.
