Captain Sadio Mané poses with trophy at the just ended 2025 AFCON in Rabat.
Accra, Ghana — Senegal were crowned champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a dramatic 1–0 victory over hosts Morocco in the final played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Sunday. The win secured Senegal’s second AFCON title, reinforcing their position as one of Africa’s leading football nations. The decisive moment arrived in extra time, when midfielder Pape Gueye struck a powerful left-footed goal in the 94th minute to break the deadlock and send the Senegalese players and travelling fans into jubilant celebration.
The final had been a fiercely contested encounter that remained goalless through 90 minutes, with both sides creating opportunities but failing to convert. The match, however, was overshadowed by controversy and dramatic incidents in stoppage time of the second half. After a VAR review, a penalty was awarded to Morocco, igniting intense protests from Senegal’s players and officials. In a highly unusual turn of events, Senegal briefly walked off the pitch in protest before returning to play following intervention from captain Sadio Mané and team officials.
Morocco’s chance to take the lead slipped away when forward Brahim Díaz failed to convert the penalty, attempting a Panenka-style effort that was comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy.
Senegal’s victory was met with wild celebrations across the stadium and back home, where fans erupted in joy and national pride. The team’s success was hailed as a unifying moment, with supporters taking to the streets, lighting fireworks and singing well into the night. Senegal’s President expressed pride in the team’s achievement and announced a public holiday to commemorate the triumph.
While the result brought joy to Senegalese supporters, the match itself drew attention for the intensity of its drama. The chaotic scenes including the penalty controversy, the temporary walk-off by Senegal’s players, and emotional reactions from both teams have sparked considerable discussion across African football circles about officiating and match management.
Jubilation in Senegal after team wins 2025 AFCON
The title adds to Senegal’s impressive record in continental competitions, coming four years after their first AFCON win in 2021. Meanwhile, Morocco’s quest for a second continental title and the first since 1976 ended in heartbreak despite a strong tournament performance as hosts.
Senegal now look ahead to future international competitions buoyed by their latest success, while the Confederation of African Football (CAF) may review match events as part of ongoing efforts to enhance the management and integrity of the continent’s flagship competition.
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