Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 in extra time in the dramatic 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final. Pape Gueye scored the winning goal in the 94th minute of extra time, securing Senegal's second AFCON title. The match, which took place on Sunday, January 18, 2026, in Rabat, Morocco, was marred by controversy and a lengthy delay in stoppage time when Senegal's players temporarily walked off the pitch in protest of a penalty awarded to Morocco. Morocco's Brahim Díaz subsequently missed the penalty, sending the final to extra time.In a final etched in controversy, drama, and sheer resilience, Senegal edged past hosts Morocco with a solitary goal in extra time to clinch their second consecutive Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title. The 1-0 victory was a story of defiance and the ultimate triumph for the Teranga Lions, who overcame not just a formidable opponent but also a mid-match crisis that threatened to derail the game itself [1]. The match on Sunday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium was a cagey affair, a tactical battle that saw two of the continent's defensive powerhouses nullify each other for 90 minutes. Morocco, who had only conceded one goal throughout the tournament, found their match in a resolute Senegalese defense [1]. The Turning Point: Stoppage Time Drama The most contentious moment of the final arrived deep in stoppage time of normal play. With the game finely poised at 0-0, the referee pointed to the spot, awarding Morocco a penalty for a foul in the box. The decision sparked chaos. In a dramatic show of protest, the entire Senegalese team walked off the pitch, resulting in a lengthy delay that held the football world captive [1]. Order was eventually restored, but the psychological warfare had begun. When play resumed, Morocco's star attacker Brahim Díaz stepped up to take the crucial kick. The Real Madrid forward, typically clinical, sent his penalty wide. It was a miss that deflated the home crowd and injected Senegal with a renewed sense of belief [1].
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Gueye's Golden Moment Energized by their good fortune and perhaps a sense of injustice, Senegal entered extra time with a clear mission. Just four minutes into the added period, the moment of glory arrived. Midfielder Pape Gueye, a constant engine for his team, found space and fired a shot past the Moroccan goalkeeper. It was the decisive goal, a strike that would ultimately seal their fate as champions [1]. The final whistle was met with an explosion of joy from the Senegalese players and despair from the Moroccan team and their passionate home support [1]. A Legacy Cemented, A Wait Extended For Senegal, this victory cements their status as the dominant force in African football. Having won their first-ever title in 2022, they have now achieved a rare back-to-back triumph, a testament to their golden generation of talent and tactical discipline. The nation’s president declared Monday a public holiday to celebrate the historic win [1]. For Morocco, the pain of defeat is palpable. As tournament hosts, they had high hopes of ending a continental title drought that stretches back to 1976. The defeat ensures their long wait for the coveted trophy continues, despite a tournament run that showcased their quality and potential [1]. The Rabat final will be remembered not just for the scoreline, but for its raw emotion, controversy, and the unwavering spirit of a Senegalese side that refused to be beaten.
Michele Criscitiello
