Senegal were crowned Africa Cup of Nations champions after Pape Gueye’s stunning extra-time goal secured a 1-0 victory over hosts Morocco in a tense final in Rabat.
The Lions of Teranga lifted the continental trophy for the second time in three tournaments, becoming the first side in more than four decades to defeat a host nation in an AFCON final.
In front of a partisan crowd at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Africa’s two highest-ranked teams produced a final that swung between control, controversy and late drama.
The opening exchanges were surprisingly open. Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou denied Pape Gueye early on, while Ismael Saibari dragged a promising effort wide at the other end. Senegal looked the sharper side before the break, with Iliman Ndiaye going closest when his low drive was blocked by Bounou’s outstretched leg.
Coach Thiaw now becomes the first coach to win CHAN as well the AFCON. Photo Credit: AFP
Morocco grew into the contest after half-time and twice threatened through Ayoub El Kaabi, who narrowly missed the target following a clever delivery from Bilal El Khannouss. Momentum stalled after a lengthy stoppage for an injury to Neil El Aynaoui, disrupting the hosts’ rhythm.
Controversy followed late in normal time when referee Jean-Jacques Ndala blew for a foul just before Idrissa Gana Gueye headed the ball into the net for Senegal.
Deep into stoppage time, VAR intervened to award Morocco a penalty for a foul on Brahim Diaz, but the Real Madrid winger failed to convert, chipping straight at goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.
Photo Credit: AFP
Extra time brought the decisive moment. Just minutes after its start, Senegal broke at pace and Pape Gueye shrugged off Achraf Hakimi before unleashing a powerful left-footed strike into the top corner.
Morocco pushed relentlessly for an equaliser. Nayef Aguerd struck the crossbar with a late header, while Bounou kept his side in contention with a fine save from substitute Cherif Ndiaye. But Senegal’s defence held firm to seal another historic triumph.
Man of the Match: Pape Gueye (Senegal)
