Senegal clinched their second Africa Cup of Nations title in dramatic fashion, defeating hosts Morocco 1–0 after extra time in a thrilling TotalEnergies AFCON final in Rabat, Morocco, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced Sunday 18.
The decisive moment came three minutes into extra time when Pape Gueye struck a superb left footed effort from the edge of the area, silencing the home crowd and sealing a historic victory for the Teranga Lions.
The final was finely balanced from the outset. Morocco were chasing their first continental crown in more than 50 years, while Senegal were aiming to reclaim the title they first lifted in 2021.
Senegal were the stronger side in the first half, with Yassine Bounou producing several key saves, while Morocco pressed after the break but lacked a finishing touch.
Morocco had been close to winning it in regulation time but were denied when Edward Mendy saved Brahim Diaz’s late penalty following a VAR review.
Despite late pressure from the hosts, Senegal held firm to secure their second continental crown, reaffirming their place among Africa’s elite.
In the end, Senegal’s defensive resilience and composure proved decisive as they saw out a historic victory, securing their second AFCON title and reaffirming their status among Africa’s elite.
CAF named Pape Gueye as the Man of the Match after scoring the winning goal.
In his acceptance speech Gueye said scoring in a final is a moment of pride for him and most importantly, the Senegal national team now has a second star.
“I am very happy to win the final; it was a complicated match,” said Gueye, adding that after Morocco missed the penalty, they stayed focused, played their game, and showed Senegalese football.By Anita Omwenga
