Senegal claimed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy after a dramatic 1-0 victory over hosts Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Sunday. Pape Gueye’s extra-time strike proved decisive, securing the Teranga Lions their second continental crown.

Late Drama and Crucial Saves

The match remained scoreless through 90 minutes, with Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy denying Morocco from a stoppage-time penalty. Brahim Diaz’s panenka was comfortably saved, sending the final into extra time amid chaotic scenes as fans attempted to storm the pitch. Riot police intervened, but Senegal regrouped for the decisive moment.

Gueye’s Decisive Strike

Minutes into extra time, Senegal launched a swift counter, with Pape Gueye finishing a well-worked move into the top corner to break the deadlock. Morocco pressed for an equaliser but were repeatedly thwarted, with Yassine Bounou making key saves and the woodwork coming to Senegal’s aid.

Balanced Contest Despite Absences

Senegal triumphed despite missing captain Kalidou Koulibaly, midfielder Habib Diarra, and right-back Krepin Diatta. Early chances fell to Senegal, including Gueye heading over from a Lamine Camara cross and Nicolas Jackson setting up Amadou Ndiaye, whose effort was saved.

Morocco also created opportunities, with Abde Ezzalzouli, Ismael Saibari, and Ayoub El Kaabi testing Senegal’s defence throughout a tense and highly competitive final. Physical clashes and close-range opportunities punctuated the match, but the Atlas Lions’ hopes of triumphing on home soil were ultimately dashed.

Senegal’s resilience under pressure, coupled with clinical finishing in extra time, earned them the title, while Morocco were left to rue missed chances in front of their home supporters.