AFCON 2025: Senegal Conquers Morocco, Claims Second AFCON Title Amid Controversy

By Emmanuel Kwada 

‎In one of the most dramatic and chaotic finals in Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) history, Senegal defeated hosts Morocco 1-0 after extra time on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

‎Midfielder Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal in the 94th minute to secure the Teranga Lions’ second continental title, following their triumph in 2021 (often referred to as the 2022 edition due to scheduling).

Teranga Lions’ midfielder, Pape Gueye celebrates decisive goal he scored in the 94th minute.

‎The match, played under pouring rain, was a tense, tactical battle between two of Africa’s top sides. Morocco, seeking to end a 50-year wait for a second AFCON crown on home soil, dominated possession but struggled to break down Senegal’s resilient defense. The game appeared headed for penalties until late drama unfolded.

‎In the dying moments of normal time, controversy erupted. Senegal had a goal disallowed for a perceived foul on Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi in the buildup, a decision many viewed as soft based on replays.

‎Díaz’s attempted Panenka was comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy.

‎Moments later, a VAR review led to a stoppage-time penalty awarded to Morocco after a shirt-pull on Brahim Díaz in the box.

‎Senegal’s players, incensed by what they saw as biased refereeing, briefly stormed off the pitch in protest, heading toward the tunnel in a farcical walk-off that halted play for over 14 minutes.

Sadio Mané celebrates his win over Morocco.

‎Sadio Mané remained on the field, urging his teammates to return, showcasing leadership amid the chaos.

‎The penalty was eventually taken, but Díaz’s attempted Panenka was comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, shifting momentum dramatically.

‎Senegal regrouped, and in the first period of extra time, Gueye swept home a powerful left-footed strike to seal the victory and spark wild celebrations among the Teranga Lions.

‎Senegalese player was even assigned to guard Mendy’s towel, physically intervening to prevent thefts.

‎Beyond the refereeing scandals, the final was overshadowed by bizarre pitch-side antics involving Moroccan ball boys and staff repeatedly attempting to steal Senegal’s goalkeeper towels; items used by keepers like Mendy to dry their gloves, especially crucial on a wet night.

‎Senegal anticipated the tactic after similar incidents in earlier matches (including against Nigeria in the semi-final, where goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali had multiple towels taken).

‎A Senegalese player was even assigned to guard Mendy’s towel, physically intervening to prevent thefts.

Sadio Mané wins Best Player of the Tournament Award at the AFCON.

‎These episodes fueled accusations of intimidation and unfair home advantage, with critics pointing to a pattern of disruptive behavior throughout Morocco’s campaign.

‎Social media footage showed repeated attempts, with some describing it as “ridiculous” and “desperate,” while others linked it to superstition about Senegal’s supposed use of “black magic” under the towels.

‎The atmosphere turned volatile in the closing stages, with reports of clashes between Senegal supporters and Moroccan authorities, as well as attempts by home fans to storm the field after the final whistle.

‎The chaotic scenes, including violent altercations and heightened tensions, marred what had otherwise been a highly anticipated showdown.

‎Senegal’s victory marks their second title in recent years.

While Senegal’s win was celebrated as a triumph of resilience and justice, it prompted calls for CAF investigations into refereeing, hosting conduct, and potential sanctions against both teams for the walk-off.

‎Senegal’s victory marks their second title in recent years, solidifying their status as a dominant force in African football. For Morocco, the defeat ends a remarkable unbeaten run of 26 games and leaves their long wait for continental glory intact.

Senegalese players lifted Sadio Mané with the trophy in celebration.

With Senegal’s latest triumph, here is the updated ranking of countries by the number of AFCON titles won (as of the 2025 edition, the 35th tournament):

1. Egypt – 7 titles (1957, 1959, 1986, 1998, 2006, 2008, 2010).
2. Cameroon – 5 titles (1984, 1988, 2000, 2002, 2017).
3. Ghana – 4 titles (1963, 1965, 1978, 1982).
4. Nigeria – 3 titles (1980, 1994, 2013).
5. Ivory Coast – 3 titles (1992, 2015, 2023).
6. Senegal – 2 titles (2021, 2025).
7. Algeria – 2 titles (1990, 2019.
8. DR Congo – 2 titles (1968, 1974).
9. Morocco – 1 title (1976).
10. Tunisia – 1 title (2004).
11. Zambia – 1 title (2012).
12. South Africa – 1 title (1996).
13. Ethiopia – 1 title (1962).
14. Sudan – 1 title (1970).
15. Congo – 1 title (1972).

Despite the controversies; from disputed decisions to towel thefts and fan unrest, the match delivered unforgettable drama, ensuring it will be remembered as one of AFCON’s most talked-about finals. The Teranga Lions lift the trophy, but the shadow of chaos lingers over Rabat.

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