AFCON FINAL DRAMA: Senegal Crowned Champions After Walk-Off Protest and Penalty Drama

Senegal has been crowned the kings of Africa for the second time in history following a chaotic 1–0 victory over hosts Morocco in a final that will be remembered more for its “madness” than its football.

The match at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium descended into unprecedented scenes during stoppage time, nearly leading to the total abandonment of the final.

With the game locked at 0–0 in the 93rd minute, Senegal thought they had secured the win through Ismaila Sarr, only for the goal to be controversially ruled out for a foul. Moments later, the referee awarded a penalty to Morocco after a VAR review, a decision that sent the Senegalese bench into a frenzy.

In an extraordinary protest, Senegal manager Pape Thiaw ordered his entire team to walk off the pitch. For nearly 15 minutes, the final was suspended as players retreated toward the tunnel. It took the intervention of captain Sadio Mané and CAF officials to convince the squad to return and finish the match.

When play finally resumed, Morocco’s star man Brahim Díaz stepped up for the 98th-minute penalty that could have ended his country’s 50-year trophy drought. Diaz attempted a daring “Panenka” chip, but the long delay seemed to have cooled his nerves; Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy stood his ground and easily caught the ball, sending the game into extra time.

The “Lions of Teranga” capitalized on their newfound momentum just four minutes into the extra period. Pape Gueye unleashed a thunderous strike from the edge of the box, beating Yassine Bounou to seal the win.

This victory cements Senegal’s status as a continental powerhouse, having now won two of the last three AFCON titles (2022 and 2026). While Morocco’s manager Walid Regragui described the walk-off as “shameful for African football,” the Senegalese fans and players celebrated a win they believe was won against all odds.

Tournament Awards:

• Champions: Senegal

• Player of the Tournament: Sadio Mané

• Golden Boot: Brahim Díaz (5 goals)

• Best Goalkeeper: Yassine Bounou