Following an incredible implosion, hosts Atlas Lions of Morocco faltered when it mattered most to gift their Senegalese counterparts, Teranga Lions, the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title on a platter of gold.
To emerge continental champions for the second time in their football history, Senegal had to dig deep to beat a desperate Moroccan side 1-0 after extra time at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Sunday in a final match that was overshadowed by drama and controversies.
From a controversial penalty to protests and a late, fate-deciding goal from Pape Gueye, which will be remembered for years to come, both finalists delivered captivating and high-stakes football, defined by intense moments, dramatic finishes, ugly protests and clashes between players and staff at an embarrassing level.
The Lions of Teranga, who appeared in their third final in the last four editions, withstood the storm and became the African champions once again. Morocco, though, extended their 50-year wait for another continental trophy, with Brahim Diaz guilty of missing a stoppage-time penalty that would have sealed the title for the hosts.
On this historic night, it was Morocco’s best player, Diaz, who became their nemesis with his horror Panenka penalty after a tense and prolonged moment that made the continent hold its breath. With the battle line drawn between Diaz and Keeper Edward Mendy in the Senegalese goal, it was the former Chelsea keeper who emerged as the victor as Diaz inexplicably attempted a Panenka chip, which floated straight into Mendy’s arms.
The game went to extra time, and it didn’t take long for Senegal to make Diaz pay. Gueye rifled an unstoppable short into the top right corner of the net after driving towards the edge of the box to open the scoring. Diaz was subbed shortly after, and looked visibly emotional after taking his spot on the Morocco bench. Senegal ultimately held on to lift their second AFCON title in the most dramatic but controversial circumstances
The MVP
Gueye stepped up as the hero with the winning goal in a tense encounter in Rabat in front of a hugely partisan crowd. The Villarreal man’s spectacular goal will be remembered for generations, especially given the circumstances the victory was achieved.
Mendy will be remembered as a national hero, too, while Mane deserves special mention for his actions before Diaz’s penalty, as he talked sense into his team-mates at a time when it looked like the game might be abandoned.
The Big Loser
Diaz had a chance to seal it for Morocco, but his penalty attempt was absolutely abysmal and will no doubt keep him awake at night for some time.
That was the moment that the North Africans came so close to becoming champions, but nerves clearly got the better of the Real Madrid forward, who had been arguably the tournament’s best player up to that point. – With Goal.com report
