RABAT, Morocco — In a dramatic conclusion to the Africa Cup of Nations, Senegal secured a historic 1-0 extra-time victory over host nation Morocco on Sunday. The match, however, was overshadowed by significant controversy and disruptive crowd behavior following a highly contentious penalty decision late in normal time.
The pivotal moment occurred in the 24th minute of added time when Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty after a VAR review of a challenge on Brahim Diaz by Senegalese defender El Hadji Malick Diouf. The decision sparked immediate protests from Senegal’s players and coaching staff, while Moroccan players insisted on additional review of the incident.
The ensuing delay of approximately twenty minutes created extraordinary tension throughout Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. During this interruption, sections of Senegalese supporters engaged in disruptive behavior, throwing chairs and attempting to access the pitch before being restrained by security personnel.
When the penalty was finally taken, Real Madrid winger Brahim Diaz saw his weakly attempted chip easily saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The missed opportunity proved costly as Pape Gueye became the match-winner in the fourth minute of extra time. The Villarreal midfielder received a precise pass from Idrissa Gana Gueye, held off Moroccan captain Achraf Hakimi, and delivered a superb strike into the top corner past goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Morocco nearly equalized when Nayef Aguerd’s header struck the crossbar during the second half of extra time, but Senegal maintained their narrow advantage to claim their second AFCON title in three years. The victory marks a significant achievement for Senegal, who had previously failed to score in three prior AFCON final appearances.
The tournament concluded in bitter disappointment for Morocco, who had aspired to win their first African championship in fifty years before their home supporters. Many fans departed before the final whistle on a rain-soaked evening in Rabat, while questions lingered regarding match organization and security protocols.