Senegal claimed their second Africa Cup of Nations title after edging hosts Morocco 1–0 after extra time in a dramatic final marked by controversy, prolonged stoppage time, and a decisive late goal.
The final, played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, ended scoreless after 90 minutes following a tense and tactical contest between the two sides.
Drama unfolded deep into stoppage time when Morocco were awarded a penalty in the 95th minute after a VAR review ruled that Senegal left back Malick Diouf had fouled Brahim Diaz inside the area. The decision triggered strong protests from Senegal players and led to an extended delay before the spot kick was taken.
When play finally resumed more than 20 minutes into added time, Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy produced a crucial save, denying Diaz’s Panenka style penalty and sending the match into extra time.
Senegal eventually found the breakthrough in the 94th minute of extra time, with Pape Gueye scoring the decisive goal to seal a famous victory.
The win secured Senegal’s second consecutive AFCON title, following their triumph in the previous edition, and denied Morocco the chance to lift the trophy on home soil.