Pape Gueye’s extra-time strike secured Senegal’s second Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title as they defeated hosts Morocco 1–0 in a dramatic and chaotic final.
Senegal dominated the first half and came close to breaking the deadlock on two occasions, but outstanding saves from Yassine Bounou kept Morocco at bay. The hosts failed to register a single shot on target before the break.
After halftime, Senegal maintained control of the match, though Morocco grew more direct and enjoyed a few promising moments going forward. As the game entered its closing stages, however, the final descended into complete chaos.
In the 94th minute, Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty after Brahim Díaz was judged to have been fouled by El Hadji Malick Diouf during a corner kick. The decision came moments after Ismaïla Sarr had a goal disallowed for an alleged foul on Achraf Hakimi.
The call sparked outrage among Senegal’s players, coaching staff, and supporters. Head coach Pape Thiaw instructed his players to leave the pitch in protest, and they complied.
Drama: Mendy saves Diaz’s penalty, Gueye scores
After more than 20 minutes of confusion and delays, captain Sadio Mané went to the dressing room to convince his teammates to return and resume the match. Goalkeeper Edouard Mendy retook his place in goal as Díaz stepped up to take the penalty, but his attempted panenka was comfortably saved by Mendy.
The match then moved into extra time, with Senegal looking increasingly confident and composed. Their persistence was rewarded four minutes into the first period when Pape Gueye burst past Achraf Hakimi and unleashed a stunning left-footed strike to give Senegal the lead.
Morocco attempted to mount a late comeback, but Senegal remained resolute and well-organised to see out the match, sealing a historic victory and crowning themselves champions of Africa for the second time.
Meanwhile, Mane was named player of the tournament while Real Madrid and Morocco’s Diaz walked away with the Golden Boot award after scoring five goals at the tournament.
Bounou was the recipient of the Golden Glove award, while his Moroccan team was given the Fair Play award to conclude the long night in Rabat.
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