The African History Truly African
Senegal have been crowned Africa Cup of Nations champions after a 1–0 victory over hosts Morocco in a dramatic and chaotic 2025 final played in Rabat.
The final remained goalless after 90 minutes of intense football. Both sides showed discipline and caution, aware of the stakes. Morocco pressed with home support behind them, while Senegal stayed compact and patient.
The match took a controversial turn deep into second-half stoppage time. The referee awarded Morocco a penalty following a VAR review after El Hadji Malick Diouf was ruled to have fouled Brahim Diaz. The decision sparked immediate protests from Senegal players. Brahim Diaz stepped up but missed the penalty, failing to break the deadlock.
Confusion followed moments later when Ismaila Sarr appeared to score for Senegal. A premature whistle stopped play, and VAR did not review the incident. Senegal players walked off the pitch in protest before eventually returning to resume the match.
Tensions escalated in the stands as fans broke through barriers during the stoppage-time chaos. Security moved quickly to restore order, and play continued into extra time.
Senegal found the breakthrough early in extra time. Pape Gueye struck a powerful shot into the top corner, scoring the only goal of the final. Morocco pushed forward in search of an equalizer, but Senegal’s defense held firm until the final whistle.
The victory secures Senegal’s second Africa Cup of Nations title and confirms their status among the continent’s leading teams. For Morocco, the defeat marks a painful end to a strong tournament run on home soil.
Celebrations erupted among Senegal players and supporters as the trophy was lifted, closing one of the most dramatic finals in Africa Cup of Nations history.
