Senegal emerged champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday night, defeating hosts Morocco 1–0 in a fiercely contested final in Rabat.

The encounter between Africa’s top-ranked sides lived up to expectations, with both teams displaying tactical discipline and resilience. The first half ended goalless as defences dominated and clear-cut chances were scarce.

Tension heightened after the interval when Ismaila Sarr thought he had put Senegal ahead with a header, only for the referee to rule it out for a foul on Achraf Hakimi. As the match appeared headed for a stalemate, drama erupted in stoppage time.

In the 97th minute, Morocco were awarded a contentious penalty, a decision that sparked protests from Senegalese players, some of whom briefly left the pitch. However, Brahim Diaz’s tame panenka attempt was superbly saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, keeping Senegal alive.

The decisive moment came in the first period of extra time when Pape Gueye unleashed a brilliant left-footed strike that beat the Moroccan goalkeeper and sent the travelling Senegalese fans into wild celebration.

Despite late pressure from the Atlas Lions, Senegal held firm to secure their second AFCON title and cement their status as the continent’s dominant force.

The victory crowns an impressive campaign for the Teranga Lions, who navigated the tournament unbeaten and once again demonstrated their pedigree on Africa’s biggest football stage.