Senegal Win Second AFCON Title in Controversial Final

Senegal lifted their second Africa Cup of Nations trophy after edging hosts Morocco in a dramatic and controversial final.

However, the title clash nearly collapsed in stoppage time before Senegal sealed victory in extra time.

VAR Call Triggers Late Drama

As the match entered the 98th minute with the score level, referee Jean Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty. He made the decision after consulting the VAR monitor over El Hadji Malick Diouf’s challenge on Brahim Diaz.

Earlier, Ndala had disallowed a Senegal goal, which already frustrated head coach Pape Thiaw. As a result, emotions boiled over on the touchline.

Thiaw Orders Players Off the Pitch

Moments later, Thiaw instructed his players to walk off the pitch. Consequently, chaos erupted inside the stadium.

Meanwhile, Sadio Mane remained on the field and urged his team-mates to return. At the same time, some supporters threw objects, while others attempted to invade the pitch.

Eventually, officials restored order, and the teams returned after a 17-minute delay.

Mendy Denies Morocco

Then came a crucial moment. Brahim Diaz, the tournament’s top scorer, stepped up to take the penalty. However, his Panenka attempt lacked power, and Edouard Mendy saved it with ease.

Immediately after the save, Ndala ended normal time and pushed the match into extra time.

Gueye Delivers Decisive Blow

Senegal wasted no time in extra time. Just four minutes in, Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye fired home the winning goal.

As a result, the Lions secured their second AFCON crown in five years.

Coaches React After the Final Whistle

After the match, Morocco coach Walid Regragui slammed Senegal’s brief walk-off. He called it “shameful” and said it failed to honour African football.

Meanwhile, Thiaw admitted he made a mistake. Speaking to BeIN Sport, he apologised and said emotions influenced his decision.

Mane Calls for Respect for the Game

Despite the controversy, Mane stressed the importance of football’s image. He said walking away would have damaged African football.

Similarly, Mendy praised the squad’s unity, while Gueye said the team regrouped after feeling wronged by earlier calls.

Morocco Left Waiting Again

In the end, Morocco missed the chance to win their first AFCON title since 1976. Senegal, however, confirmed their status as Africa’s dominant force this decade.