Addis Ababa, January 19, 2026 (FMC) — Senegal clinched the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title on Sunday night after edging host nation Morocco 1–0 in extra time in a dramatic and controversial final played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
A powerful strike by Pape Gueye three minutes into extra time settled the contest after a tense and goalless 90 minutes, handing the Teranga Lions their second continental crown and denying Morocco a long-awaited triumph on home soil.
The final was played at high intensity from the outset, with both sides showing tactical discipline and defensive resilience. Senegal created several early openings through Sadio Mané and Ismaïla Sarr, while Morocco relied on swift transitions and the creativity of Brahim Díaz and Hakim Ziyech. Despite sustained pressure at both ends, neither team was able to break the deadlock in regulation time.
Late drama unfolded deep into stoppage time when the referee, following a VAR review, awarded Morocco a penalty, triggering strong protests from Senegal’s players. The West Africans briefly walked off the pitch before returning to resume play. Morocco failed to capitalize on the opportunity as Brahim Díaz’s attempted Panenka penalty was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, sending the final into extra time.
Momentum shifted decisively in Senegal’s favor shortly after extra time began. Pape Gueye struck from outside the penalty area in the 94th minute, firing a low and powerful effort beyond the reach of the Moroccan goalkeeper. Senegal then held firm under sustained pressure to see out the match and secure the title.
The victory capped a composed and resilient tournament campaign by Senegal, who remained defensively solid throughout the competition and showed composure in key moments. Morocco, meanwhile, impressed in front of their home supporters and conceded few goals en route to the final, but were ultimately undone by missed chances and late drama.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was staged in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, bringing together 24 teams from across the continent. The tournament was marked by tight matches, strong defensive performances, and several high-profile upsets, reinforcing the growing competitiveness of African football.
Following the final, the Confederation of African Football announced the tournament’s individual awards. Senegal captain Sadio Mané was named Player of the Tournament for his leadership and influence across the competition. Morocco’s Brahim Díaz finished as the top scorer with five goals, earning the Golden Boot, while Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou received the Golden Glove award for his consistent performances and multiple clean sheets.
Senegal’s triumph represents their second Africa Cup of Nations title, adding to their maiden victory in the 2021 edition. For Morocco, the defeat extended their wait for a continental title to more than five decades, despite a strong showing in front of home fans.
The Rabat final will be remembered as one of the most dramatic in AFCON history, combining high-quality football, intense atmosphere, and moments of controversy that kept the continent — and the wider football world — riveted until the final whistle.