Senegal clinched the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over hosts Morocco in a dramatic final played on Sunday night in Rabat.
The clash between Africa’s two highest-ranked teams lived up to expectations, with both sides locked in a tense, tactical battle. The first half ended goalless as chances were few and defenses stood firm.
The game appeared destined for a stalemate in regulation time until controversy struck in the second half. Senegal thought they had taken the lead through Ismaila Sarr’s header, only for the referee to rule it out for a foul on Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi.
Late drama followed in the 97th minute when Morocco were awarded a contentious penalty decision, sparking heated protests from the Senegalese players, who briefly walked off the pitch. Amid the tension, Brahim Díaz attempted a panenka, but his effort was poorly executed and brilliantly saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy.
The decisive moment came in the first half of extra time. Pape Gueye produced a moment of brilliance, curling a sublime left-footed strike past the Moroccan goalkeeper to stun the home crowd.
Senegal held on to their slender lead until the final whistle, sealing a memorable victory and crowning themselves champions of Africa once again.
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