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Senegal were crowned champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after edging hosts Morocco 1–0 in extra time in a tense final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
In a match defined by narrow margins, discipline and nerves, the Teranga Lions withstood sustained pressure to deny Morocco a maiden AFCON triumph on home soil. The breakthrough came in extra time when a costly defensive lapse by the hosts allowed Senegal to strike the decisive goal, sparking wild celebrations among the travelling supporters and silencing the packed stadium.
Morocco dominated possession for long periods and pushed relentlessly for an equaliser, particularly in the closing stages, committing numbers forward as time ran out. Senegal, however, remained compact and well-organised, absorbing pressure and managing the game expertly in the final moments.
The hosts came agonisingly close to forcing penalties when goalkeeper Yassine Bounou produced a crucial save to deny Pape Gueye’s long-range effort in the 117th minute. Moments later, Senegal nearly sealed the victory, but Cherif Ndiaye squandered a golden opportunity, sending a rebound wide with the goal at his mercy.
Despite the late drama, Senegal kept their composure. As Morocco launched a final assault in stoppage time, the African champions slowed the tempo, maintained possession in advanced areas and ran down the remaining seconds.
At the final whistle, relief and jubilation swept through the Senegalese camp. It was a triumph built more on resilience than flair, but one that reinforced their status as a continental powerhouse.
For Morocco, the defeat was a crushing blow, as a dominant performance backed by passionate home support ultimately fell short of delivering glory. For Senegal, it marked another memorable chapter in their AFCON history—hard-earned, dramatic and unforgettable.
