Senegal were crowned champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday night after a dramatic 1–0 extra-time victory over hosts Morocco, a result that not only delivered the continental title to the Lions of Teranga but also brought an abrupt end to the Atlas Lions’ long unbeaten run on home soil.
In a pulsating final played before a packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Pape Gueye’s stunning strike early in extra time proved the difference in a contest defined by tension, controversy and fine margins. The victory sealed Senegal’s second AFCON title in three editions and reinforced their status as one of Africa’s dominant football forces.
The final had been delicately poised after 90 minutes of cagey football, with both sides cancelling each other out in midfield and defence. Morocco, buoyed by passionate home support and an impressive tournament record that saw them concede just one goal en route to the final, thought they had their moment in stoppage time when VAR awarded them a penalty. However, Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy produced a defining save, calmly denying Brahim Díaz’s audacious Panenka attempt and sending the match into extra time.
Moments after extra time began, Senegal struck decisively. A swift transition saw the ball worked to Gueye on the edge of the box, and the midfielder unleashed a ferocious left-footed drive that flew past the Moroccan goalkeeper, silencing the stadium and sending the Senegal bench into wild celebration. The Lions of Teranga defended resolutely thereafter, seeing out the match to claim the trophy.
“This group showed incredible belief and character,” Senegal coach Pape Thiaw said after the match. “We faced a strong Morocco side, in their home, on a historic night. The players stayed focused, even in difficult moments, and they were rewarded.”
For Morocco, the defeat was a bitter end to an otherwise outstanding tournament and a remarkable unbeaten streak that had raised hopes of a first AFCON title on home soil in nearly five decades. Head coach Walid Regragui admitted the pain of the loss but praised his players’ effort. “Football can be cruel,” he said. “We gave everything, and I am proud of this team. Congratulations to Senegal; they took their chance.”
The final was not without controversy, as emotions boiled over late in regulation time following the penalty decision, briefly halting play and underscoring the intensity of the occasion. Yet it was Senegal who emerged with composure and clarity when it mattered most.
With the victory, Senegal add another glittering chapter to their recent golden era, having now lifted the AFCON trophy twice in quick succession. For Morocco, the dream of home glory slipped away, but their unbeaten run and defensive solidity throughout the tournament will remain a benchmark for future campaigns.
As celebrations erupted across Senegal and disappointment lingered in Rabat, the 2025 AFCON final will be remembered as a night of drama, heartbreak and decisive brilliance — a fitting climax to Africa’s biggest football stage.
