Senegal on Sunday night time defeated hosts Morocco 1–0 after further time to win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations ultimate in Rabat, in a match marred by controversy, extended stoppages, and gamers briefly leaving the pitch.
The dramatic ultimate on the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium was interrupted late in regulation time after a contentious penalty resolution awarded to Morocco following a VAR overview, sparking protests from Senegal gamers.
The penalty, awarded deep into stoppage time, led to chaotic scenes as Senegal gamers surrounded the referee, with play halted for a number of minutes.
Gamers from each groups ultimately walked off the pitch earlier than returning after intervention by match officers and safety personnel.
Morocco’s Brahim Diaz missed the penalty, with Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saving his tried Panenka, additional escalating tensions contained in the stadium.
After regulation time ended goalless, the match proceeded to further time amid a charged ambiance.
Senegal took the lead within the 94th minute when Pape Gueye struck a strong long-range effort into the highest nook.
Morocco pushed for an equaliser, hitting the crossbar and forcing late saves, however Senegal held on to safe victory in a ultimate that noticed prolonged delays, heated exchanges, and repeated VAR interventions.