Senegal claimed their second Africa Cup of Nations title in extraordinary circumstances, defeating hosts Morocco 1-0 in extra time on January 18, 2026. Pape Gueye’s goal secured victory, but the match will be remembered for chaotic scenes when Senegal players temporarily walked off the pitch in protest over a late penalty award. Despite the controversy, Sadio Mané’s intervention ensured play resumed, allowing the Lions of Teranga to complete a hard-fought triumph.
Match Summary: Tension and Turning Points
The final at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium remained goalless through 90 minutes, with both sides cautious. Controversy erupted in stoppage time.
First, referee Jean Jacques Ndala Ngambo disallowed an Ismaila Sarr goal for a foul in buildup. Moments later, VAR advised a penalty review for El Hadji Malick Diouf’s challenge on Brahim Díaz. Ndala awarded the spot-kick in the 98th minute.
Incensed coach Pape Thiaw led players toward the tunnel, prompting a ~17-minute delay. Fans threw objects; staff separated clashes. Mané stayed on pitch, urging teammates back—his leadership proved pivotal.
Díaz’s tame Panenka was saved by Edouard Mendy. Gueye scored early in extra time, sealing Senegal’s second title in five years (after 2021).
| Key Moment | Time | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disallowed Goal | ~90′ | Sarr bundled home; foul on Hakimi | Heightened Senegal frustration |
| Penalty Awarded | 98′ | Diouf challenge on Díaz | Sparked walk-off protest |
| Walk-Off Delay | ~17 mins | Thiaw leads players off; Mané persuades return | Match resumes; tension peaks |
| Penalty Miss | 98′ | Díaz Panenka saved by Mendy | Momentum shifts to Senegal |
| Winning Goal | ET 4′ | Gueye strikes | Seals 1-0 victory |
Reactions: Apologies and Criticism
Thiaw apologised post-match: “We shouldn’t have done it… In the heat of the moment.” He accepted referee errors but regretted the image.
Morocco’s Walid Regragui called it “shameful,” arguing it dishonoured Africa. Mané echoed concerns: “It would be crazy not to play… Really bad for African football.”
Pundits like Efan Ekoku criticised the walk-off as poor sportsmanship, while John Obi Mikel understood frustration but rejected the action.
Mendy praised unity: “We came back together—that’s all that matters.”
Tournament Context and Legacy
Hosted by Morocco, AFCON 2025 showcased infrastructure and passion. Senegal’s win—defending 2021 success—affirms dominance.
The chaos overshadowed positives: high attendance, competitive matches, emerging talents. FIFA president Gianni Infantino presented the trophy amid fallout.
Refereeing debates intensified pre-final, with Senegal citing perceived biases. The walk-off amplified calls for improved officiating.
Senegal’s Path to Glory
The Lions navigated tough groups and knockouts, culminating in this resilient display. Mané’s influence—on and off pitch—proved decisive.
Gueye’s goal and Mendy’s save highlighted collective strength.
Reflections on African Football’s Image
The final’s drama contrasted tournament highs. Organisers praised facilities, but closing scenes risk defining memories.
Thiaw’s apology and Mané’s stance offer redemption. Senegal celebrate justly earned silverware.
This AFCON blended triumph with turmoil—capturing football’s raw emotion. Senegal’s title endures; lessons from chaos may strengthen the competition’s future.
