AFCON 2025: Senegal Are Champions, Beat Morocco To Lift Trophy

 

Senegal emerged victorious against Morocco in a dramatic final, securing a narrow 1-0 win in extra time to lift the African Cup of Nations in Morocco. 

The game began at a frenetic pace, with both teams creating early goal-scoring chances. It was a mixed bag of opportunities for both sides. However, Senegal came closest to taking the lead in the first half when Mamadou Sarr's header narrowly missed the goal. As the half drew to a close in the second half, Morocco's pressure paid off in stoppage time, but Brahim Díaz's penalty was saved by Mendy, keeping the score goalless.

Senegal's Pape Gueye became a key figure when they took the lead in extra time. The breakthrough came in the 94th minute when Gueye netted a stunning goal, following a fast break, assisted by Idrissa Gueye. Morocco pushed hard for an equalizer, with Brahim Díaz drawing a crucial save from Mendy in extra time, and Senegal held on to lift the trophy.

Senegal won their first-ever AFCON Cup trophy in 2021 when they beat Egypt in the final. The two-time champions defeated Egypt in the semi-final with a one-goal from Sadio Mane. 

Overview

Morocco could barely get a shot on target for the most part of the first half, even though they played impressively, pressing up the pitch. Senegal left no room to chance in the midfield, making it hard for the opponents to get past. Sadio Mane posed a significant challenge to the Moroccan defense. However, he could not find Nicola Jackson. Good saves from Bono kept Morocco in the game when Iliman Ndiaye and Pape Gueye struck. Morocco's challenge was sustaining the pressure on Senegal to build scoring chances, while Senegal has the goalkeeper to beat to take the lead. 

Senegal lost their aggressiveness in the second half; they became too physical for a final. The midfield was loose, and their passes were not effective. Meanwhile, Morocco committed players to the attacking frontline. The midfield was effective but could barely find shots on target. It later turned dramatic in the injury time. Instances include a penalty awarded for Morocco and Senegal walking off the pitch over the referee's decision. Meanwhile, the rowdy situation followed the cancellation of a goal by Senegal due to Abdoulaye Seck's foul offense.