Senegal has successfully defended its African Cup of Nations championship in a thrilling final against Morocco that required extra time to determine the winner. The match concluded with a 1-0 victory for Senegal, marking their second consecutive title following their 2022 triumph.
The highly anticipated final, played in Rabat before a passionate home crowd, was characterized by intense moments and controversial decisions that heightened the drama. The match reached its peak of tension during the final minutes of regulation time when Moroccan players were awarded a penalty kick following a contested challenge.
Brahim Diaz, the tournament’s leading scorer with five goals, stepped up to take the potentially championship-winning penalty but failed to convert, sending the shot wide of the mark. The penalty decision sparked significant controversy as Senegalese players temporarily left the field in protest, partly due to a disallowed goal for Senegal moments earlier.
The disruption created chaotic scenes with extended delays and growing frustration among both teams and spectators. When play resumed and regulation time ended without a score, the match proceeded to extra time.
Early in the additional period, Pape Gueye broke the deadlock with a powerful strike that ultimately decided the championship. Despite Morocco’s persistent efforts to equalize in the remaining time, Senegal’s defense held firm against all attacks.
This victory solidifies Senegal’s dominant position in African football while Morocco, despite the heartbreaking loss in front of their home supporters, can reflect on an otherwise impressive tournament performance. The North African team’s fifty-year wait for another continental championship continues following this narrow defeat.