Senegal won the Africa Cup of Nations with a 1-0 extra-time victory over host nation Morocco in a dramatic final in Rabat. It is Senegal’s second AFCON title in the last three tournaments.
The match was played in a lively atmosphere, with both teams creating chances early on. Senegal looked the better side before the break, but Morocco also had moments. Goalkeepers from both teams made important saves to keep the score level at half-time.
Morocco started the second half strongly and missed a few good chances. Senegal thought they had scored when Idrissa Gueye headed the ball into the net, but the referee blew the whistle before the goal, ruling it out.
Late in stoppage time, Morocco were awarded a controversial penalty after a VAR review. After a long delay, Brahim Díaz took the penalty but Édouard Mendy saved it, sending the match into extra time.
Just minutes into extra time, Pape Gueye scored the winning goal with a powerful left-footed strike into the top corner. Morocco pushed hard to equalise, hitting the crossbar late on, but Senegal held firm.
Senegal became the first team since 1982 to beat the host nation in an AFCON final, adding this title to their 2021 triumph. Morocco impressed throughout the tournament but fell short in front of their home fans.
