Senegal have emerged champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, defeating host nation Morocco 1–0 after extra time in a tense and dramatic final played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The highly anticipated clash remained goalless after 90 minutes, with both teams locked in a tactical battle and struggling to find a breakthrough despite several half-chances. Morocco, driven on by a passionate home crowd, came agonizingly close to winning the match in stoppage time when Brahim Díaz missed a crucial penalty, sending the final into extra time.
The decisive moment arrived early in extra time when Pape Gueye capitalized on a midfield turnover, drove forward and fired a powerful shot past Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, sparking wild celebrations among Senegal’s players and supporters.
The victory hands Senegal their second AFCON title in three tournaments, underlining their status as one of Africa’s dominant football forces. For Morocco, the defeat marked another painful near-miss, extending their wait for a continental title since their lone triumph in 1976.
Played in front of a packed stadium and a global television audience, the final was defined by intensity, discipline and fine margins. In the end, it was Senegal’s composure in the decisive moments that proved the difference, as they lifted the AFCON trophy and crowned a memorable campaign with continental glory.
