Pape Gueye’s extra-time strike secured Senegal’s second Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) title in a dramatic final against Morocco, a match overshadowed by chaotic scenes at the end of normal time. Senegal briefly walked off the pitch after a lengthy VAR review awarded Morocco a penalty deep into stoppage time, sparking heated confrontations on the touchline and crowd trouble as some Senegal supporters attempted to invade the pitch.
After a prolonged delay, Brahim Díaz stepped up with a golden opportunity to end Morocco’s 50-year wait for an Afcon title with virtually the final kick of the game. Under immense pressure, Díaz attempted a delicate chip straight down the middle, but goalkeeper Édouard Mendy held his nerve, staying rooted to his line to collect the ball comfortably.
The match itself had produced few clear chances during the first 90 minutes, and the disorder that followed the VAR decision proved an unfortunate blemish on the tournament—particularly with Morocco promoting the competition as a test event ahead of its co-hosting duties for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Senegal struck early in extra time, with Gueye scoring just four minutes in. Morocco pushed for an equaliser and came closest when Nayef Aguerd’s powerful header from a corner crashed against the crossbar. However, despite late pressure, they were unable to find a way back.
As heavy rain fell in Rabat, Morocco’s hopes of lifting their first continental title since 1976 faded, while Senegal celebrated a hard-fought and dramatic Afcon triumph.
