Senegal wins AFCON title with dramatic extra-time goal in Morocco

Senegal's Pape Gueye scored in the 94th minute of extra time to win the Africa Cup of Nations final 1-0 against hosts Morocco, claiming their second continental title in three years.

The match at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat was tense and controversial. In the 24th minute of added time during normal play, Morocco's Brahim Diaz was awarded a penalty after VAR reviewed a challenge by Senegal's El Hadji Malick Diouf. Diaz's weak attempt—a Panenka chip—was saved comfortably by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The moment seemed to shift the entire match.

Senegal had already been frustrated by an earlier decision to disallow a goal by Ismaila Sarr in the second minute of added time for a foul. When Diaz's penalty went wide, it galvanised the Senegalese side. They struck decisively in extra time, with Gueye's brilliant finish silencing the 66,526-strong crowd on a cold, wet night.

For Morocco, the loss at home was brutal. Many supporters left before the final whistle, the dream of a first AFCON title slipping away in the closing moments.

This is Senegal's second AFCON title in three tournaments—they won on penalties against Egypt in 2022. The victory comes as star forward Sadio Mane has indicated this final would be his last appearance at the tournament, though Senegal will now hope to persuade him otherwise as they look toward the World Cup.