Senegal claimed their second continental crown on Sunday, January 18, 2026, edging hosts Morocco 1-0 after extra time in a dramatic final of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The tightly contested final was settled early in extra time when Pape Gueye struck the decisive goal for Senegal, breaking Moroccan resistance after 90 minutes ended goalless amid controversy.
Regulation time concluded with a flashpoint. Morocco were awarded a penalty following a lengthy VAR review, prompting Senegal’s players to briefly walk off the pitch in protest.
Play resumed after discussions with officials, but Moroccan forward Brahim Díaz failed to capitalize, attempting a Panenka that was comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy.
Moments after extra time began, Senegal seized the initiative. Gueye found the net to give the West Africans the lead, a goal that ultimately proved decisive as they held firm through the remainder of the match.
The victory marks Senegal’s second Africa Cup of Nations title and caps a resilient tournament run, while Morocco were left to rue missed chances in front of a home crowd after falling short in a final that swung on fine margins.