In a final that will be talked about for years, Senegal clinched the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title with a tense 1-0 extra-time victory over hosts Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on 18 January 2026. The Teranga Lions lifted the trophy after a hard-fought battle that featured controversy, chaos, and ultimately, a breathtaking finish.

From the opening whistle, the match was cagey and tactical. Both teams showed respect for each other’s strengths, resulting in few clear chances in the first 90 minutes. Senegal’s defence stood strong against Morocco’s attempts to break through, while Morocco found themselves frustrated by Senegal’s organisation and resilience. At the end of regulation, it was 0-0, forcing the contest into extra time.

The drama erupted deep into added time at the end of the second half. Following a VAR review, the referee awarded a penalty to Morocco, emitting outrage from the Senegalese side. In a rare and dramatic moment, Senegal’s coach ordered his players off the pitch in protest, leading to a lengthy delay before the teams were eventually persuaded to return.

Morocco’s Brahim Díaz, who had been one of the standout performers throughout the tournament, stepped up with the weight of expectation on his shoulders. However, attempting a Panenka-style penalty, his chipped effort lacked conviction and was comfortably saved by Senegal’s goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, keeping the scoreline level and sending the match into extra time.

Just minutes into extra time, Senegal struck. In the 94th minute, midfielder Pape Gueye seized on a turnover in midfield, drove forward with determination, and unleashed a powerful left-footed strike that curled into the top corner, beyond the reach of Morocco’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. The stadium erupted as Senegal took the lead in dramatic fashion.

Morocco pressed for an equaliser in the remainder of extra time ,even hitting the crossbar moments later, but Senegal held firm, defending with discipline and composure to secure the victory.

This triumph marks Senegal’s second Africa Cup of Nations title, adding to their previous win in 2021. The victory underlined Senegal’s strength and mental toughness, with a historic winning goal that came from open play, a first for the Lions of Teranga in an AFCON final.

Despite the defeat, Morocco’s campaign was remarkable. The host nation fought bravely throughout the tournament, energising their passionate home crowd with spirited performances. Brahim Díaz finished as one of the competition’s top scorers, but his crucial missed penalty will be remembered as one of the biggest turning points of the final.

In the third-place playoff, Nigeria claimed bronze after defeating Egypt in a penalty shoot-out following a goalless draw. Nigeria’s resilience in the shoot-out secured them a place on the podium and capped off a memorable AFCON 2025 tournament.

Final Standings

Champions (Gold): Senegal

Runners-Up (Silver): Morocco

Third Place (Bronze): Nigeria

The AFCON 2025 final was more than a match; it was a dramatic spectacle blending skill, tension, controversy, and sheer emotion, ultimately showcasing the unpredictable beauty of African football.

This AFCON final will long be remembered for its drama, controversy and sheer unpredictability. It is indeed a fitting climax to Africa’s premier football tournament and a majestic moment for Senegalese football.

Congratulations Senegal!