2025 AFCON: Senegal Defeat Morocco To Become African Champions

In a dramatic and controversial climax to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Senegal emerged victorious over hosts Morocco in the final played on 18 January 2026 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco. After a tense 90 minutes with no goals, the match exploded into action in extra time and will be remembered as one of the most dramatic finals in recent AFCON history.

The decisive breakthrough came early in extra time when Pape Gueye produced a stunning strike to give Senegal a 1–0 lead, sparking jubilant celebrations among the away supporters.

The game had already been filled with controversy before that moment. Late in stoppage time of regular play, a VAR review awarded Morocco a penalty, prompting intense protests from Senegal’s players and coaching staff. Senegal briefly walked off the pitch in protest, leading to confusion and a lengthy interruption.

When play resumed, Moroccan forward Brahim Díaz stepped up but saw his Panenka-style penalty saved by Senegal’s keeper Édouard Mendy, keeping the score level and fuelling Senegal’s momentum.

Despite relentless pressure from Morocco in the closing stages of extra time, Senegal held firm to secure the title, their second AFCON championship, and dealt a heartbreaking blow to the hosts seeking their first continent-wide triumph since 1976.

The final was also marked by crowd unrest, with clashes between stewards and fans that required police intervention, adding to the dramatic finish of a tournament that had already captured wide attention across the continent.

Third and Fourth Place Play-Off: Nigeria vs Egypt

Before the final, the third-place match at the 2025 AFCON took place on 17 January 2026 in Casablanca, where Nigeria faced Egypt in a tightly contested battle for bronze.

The match ended 0–0 after regulation, with both sides struggling to find a breakthrough. The tie was then decided by a penalty shootout, where Nigeria held their nerve to win 4–2.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was the hero for the Super Eagles, saving crucial penalties, including attempts from Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush — to swing the shootout in Nigeria’s favour.

Ademola Lookman stepped up to convert the decisive penalty, sealing the victory and earning Nigeria the third place finish while Egypt settled for a fourth-place finish.

The 2025 AFCON tournament will be remembered for its high-quality football, passionate fan support, and the emergence of standout talents across the continent. As Senegal celebrate a historic triumph, attention now turns to the next chapter of African football, with nations already setting their sights on future continental and global challenges.