Senegal have won the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a thrilling final against Morocco.
The Lions of Teranga triumphed in extra time at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The match intensified during second-half stoppage time. First, Ismaila Sarr’s potential late winner for Senegal was disallowed by VAR due to a foul by teammate Abdoulaye Seck on Morocco’s captain Achraf Hakimi during the play.
Shortly after, Morocco received a controversial penalty. El Hadji Malick Diouf of West Ham was penalised for contact with Brahim Diaz, and after a review, the referee awarded the penalty.
This led to a dramatic moment as Senegal’s players protested on the pitch. They briefly left the field, claiming bias, but were convinced to return by captain Sadio Mane.
Following a 24-minute delay, Edouard Mendy saved Diaz’s Panenka penalty, denying Morocco a chance to break their 50-year AFCON drought.
In extra time, Senegal took control. Just four minutes in, Pape Gueye scored the crucial goal, making Senegal AFCON champions for the second time. This marks Senegal’s third final in four tournaments and their second title in three tries.
The squad included several notable Premier League players. Sadio Mane was named Player of the Tournament, repeating his success from Senegal’s 2021 victory. Edouard Mendy made the key penalty save. Everton players Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gana Gueye significantly contributed to Senegal’s success, alongside Habib Diarra, El Hadji Malick Diouf, Ismaila Sarr, and Pape Matar Sarr, who all celebrated the victory.
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