Senegal on Sunday night defeated hosts Morocco 1-0 after extra time to win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat, in a match marred by controversy, prolonged stoppages and players briefly leaving the pitch.
The dramatic final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium was interrupted late in regulation time after a contentious penalty decision awarded to Morocco following a VAR review, sparking protests from Senegal players.
According to reports by Punch Online, the penalty, awarded deep into stoppage time, led to chaotic scenes as Senegal players surrounded the referee, with play halted for several minutes.
Players from both teams eventually walked off the pitch before returning after intervention by match officials and security personnel.
Morocco’s Brahim Diaz missed the penalty, with Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saving his attempted Panenka, further escalating tensions inside the stadium.
After regulation time ended goalless, the match proceeded to extra time amid a charged atmosphere. Senegal took the lead in the 94th minute when Pape Gueye struck a powerful long-range effort into the top corner.
News credit: Punch Online
