Senegal Wins AFCON! Gueye Stuns Morocco in Final

Senegal Crowned AFCON Champions After Pape Gueye’s Extra-Time Stunner

Senegal clinched their second Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in dramatic fashion, defeating host nation Morocco 1-0 in a final that will be remembered as much for its controversy as its brilliance. The decisive moment came in extra time when midfielder Pape Gueye unleashed a thunderous strike that sealed victory for the Lions of Teranga at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

The match had already reached fever pitch before Gueye’s goal, with tensions boiling over in stoppage time of regular play. In the dying seconds, Moroccan forward Brahim Diaz was awarded a penalty following a contentious VAR review, which adjudged Senegal’s El Hadji Malick Diouf to have pulled Diaz down in the box. The decision sparked outrage among Senegalese players and coaching staff, leading head coach Pape Thiaw to order his team off the pitch in protest.

After a 20-minute delay and heated exchanges, Senegal returned to face the penalty. Diaz, aiming to secure Morocco’s first AFCON title in nearly five decades, attempted a Panenka-style finish. But his effort was easily saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, keeping the score level and sending the match into extra time.

Just minutes into the added period, Gueye capitalized on a loose ball outside the box and rifled a shot past Moroccan keeper Yassine Bounou. The goal ignited celebrations among Senegalese fans and players, who had endured a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the evening.

Morocco pushed hard for an equalizer, hitting the woodwork and creating several chances, but Senegal held firm. The final whistle confirmed Senegal’s triumph, adding a second continental crown to their 2021 victory and solidifying their status as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.

This AFCON final, marked by skill, drama, and protest, will go down as one of the most memorable in tournament history. For Senegal, it was a night of vindication and glory. For Morocco, heartbreak and controversy linger.