Senegal Crowned AFCON 2025 Champions After Dramatic and Controversial Final
Senegal emerged as champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, securing their second continental title in dramatic fashion with a 1-0 victory over hosts Morocco in a final that will be remembered for both its football and its controversy. The decisive moment came in extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, where Pape Gueye’s spectacular strike in the 94th minute broke the deadlock and sent the Lions of Teranga into wild celebration. This goal was particularly notable as Senegal’s first-ever goal scored in an AFCON final. However, the match was overshadowed by a series of contentious events in stoppage time. A late VAR-awarded penalty to Morocco sparked furious protests from Senegal’s players and coaching staff, culminating in a brief walk-off from the pitch in protest of the decision. After a 14-minute-delay and intervention from senior figures including Sadio Mané, Senegal returned to complete the game. Morocco’s star forward Brahim Díaz, who finish...