Senegal Stun Morocco to Claim AFCON Crown After Chaotic Walk-Off Protest

RABAT, Morocco – Senegal shocked Morocco in Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final as Pape Gueye’s extra-time goal secured a 1-0 victory over the hosts. The match ended in dramatic fashion, marred by a chaotic protest from the eventual champions, who briefly walked off the pitch following a controversial late penalty decision.

Brahim Diaz had the chance to win the trophy for Morocco when he stepped up to take the spot-kick in the 24th minute of added time at the end of regulation. However, Senegalese goalkeeper Édouard Mendy comfortably saved Diaz's weak attempted ‘Panenka’ chip. The Real Madrid winger, clearly distracted by the lengthy delay caused by the penalty controversy, failed to convert under pressure.

“We gave everything. We didn’t cheat,” said match-winner Gueye in an interview with French broadcaster M6. “It was a really difficult match, but we were determined to win here. This is a beautiful country, and they have incredible supporters. Senegal are champions of Africa, and we are so happy.”

The penalty, which caused much of the chaos, was awarded by Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala in the 98th minute following a VAR review of a challenge on Diaz by Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf. Morocco’s players, along with their bench, vehemently protested the decision, urging the referee to review the footage again. Despite their protests, the penalty stood, prompting outrage from Senegal’s players and fans.

In response, several Senegal players walked off the pitch in protest, causing significant delays. Meanwhile, a section of Senegalese supporters in the away crowd threw chairs and other objects onto the field and even attempted to invade the pitch. The situation was eventually brought under control by a large barrier of police and stewards. The mood shifted dramatically as the penalty was saved, sparking jubilation among Senegal’s players and fans.

Earlier in the match, Senegal had already been frustrated when referee Ndala disallowed a goal by Ismaïla Sarr in the second minute of added time for an apparent foul. However, after Diaz’s penalty miss, it seemed almost inevitable that a revitalized Senegal would find the winner.

That moment came just four minutes into extra time when Gueye scored, silencing the home crowd of 66,526 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. The goal secured Senegal’s place as the champions of Africa, leaving Morocco stunned on home soil.

This victory marks another milestone in Senegal’s football history, cementing their status as one of the continent’s premier teams.