The Africa Cup final breakdown had as its climax the Senegal-Morocco final (AFCON 2025). The game produced exciting play, twists and turns, and significant events, all of which contributed to determining the eventual victor and generated discussion throughout Africa. The final score was 1-0 after extra time in Senegal’s favour, but what happened at the AFCON final included a number of extremely controversial occurrences – AFCON 2025 final explained player protests, a walk-off, a missed penalty and violent activity, Senegal vs Morocco match events of which captured the headlines of many newspapers across Africa.
Pre-Match Atmosphere – How the AFCON 2025 Final Began
The final was hosted at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, with over 66,000 fans. Morocco, as hosts chasing their second continental crown (their first since 1976) and Senegal, aiming for a second AFCON title after their 2021 win.
The atmosphere was intensely electric and charged with national pride. The supporters filled the stands and prepared for a historic showdown.
First Half – What Happened in the Opening 45 Minutes?
There will be raising questions about what happened in the first half AFCON final. At the Africa Cup opening ceremony, the play was cagey and disciplined from both sides, with Senegal and Morocco’s buildup at the initiative phase, as expected. Chances were limited, with strong defensive work keeping the score level with the AFCON first-half turning point. Neither team could break the deadlock, and the match heading into halftime remained 0‑0, setting up a tense second half.
Second Half – What Happened After Half-Time?
Both teams continued to play a tight second half. There were several half-chances for both sides, but the goalkeepers and defenders were able to hold strong.
In the last moments of regulation time, the drama unfolded as Senegal thought they had scored a goal only for it to be disallowed after a VAR review due to a foul during the buildup.
Within a few minutes, Morocco was awarded a penalty kick, which enraged the Senegalese team, and in protest, coach Pape Thiaw walked his team off the pitch, resulting in nearly a 15-minute delay.
Captain Sadio Mané persuaded his teammates to return to the field so that the penalty could be taken. Morocco’s Brahim Díaz attempted a Panenka‐style penalty kick that was easily saved by Senegal’s goalie Édouard Mendy, leaving the match still scoreless at the end of regulation time and going into extra time.
What Happened After the AFCON Final Ended?
The early VAR moment describes the AFCON final kickoff atmosphere. In the 96th minute of extra time, Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal for Senegal with a powerful left‑foot strike, earning them the title. The crowd reaction was mixed, with jubilant Senegal supporters and dejected Moroccan fans witnessing the historic finish.
Why Everyone Is Talking About the AFCON 2025 Final
AFCON final trending because Fans in Dakar took to the streets in celebration of their team’s victory, and hundreds of thousands of people took part in a parade. The government of Senegal and other representatives of the country praised the players for showing tremendous character and determination in winning the game.
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation said that they will file a lawsuit against CAF and FIFA regarding the way the game was played, along with the walk-off and the delay. They believe that the way the game was conducted was unfair towards the Moroccans. Many leaders from Morocco and beyond praised Brahim Diaz for his contributions to the tournament, even though it ended in a controversial fashion, creating an African football viral moment in history.
FAQ
Q1: What happened at the AFCON 2025 final?
Senegal defeated host nation Morocco 1‑0. The match was marked by a controversial penalty award late in normal time. This incident made Senegal briefly walk off the pitch before returning to play.
Q2: Who scored the decisive moment in the AFCON final?
Pape Gueye scored the winning goal for Senegal in the 94th minute of extra time.
Q3: Was there any controversy in the AFCON final?
A late VAR‑reviewed penalty awarded to Morocco was highly controversial, and after that, Senegal protested.
Q4: How did fans react after the AFCON final?
Senegalese fans celebrated the title win with street parties and a victory parade, while some Moroccan fans and officials expressed disappointment and called for official reviews.
Q5: Why is the AFCON 2025 final significant for African football?
The match is significant because of its dramatic conclusion, high emotions, and controversy, highlighting ongoing discussions about football tournaments.
