AFCON 2025 Final Result: Senegal Win Dramatic 1-0 Extra-Time Victory Over Hosts Morocco – Pape Gueye's Stunner Seals Second Title Amid Chaos

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 concluded on January 18, 2026, in dramatic and chaotic fashion as Senegal defeated hosts Morocco 1-0 after extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Midfielder Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal in the 94th minute—a powerful left-footed strike from the edge of the box—to hand Senegal their second continental title (after 2022) and deny Morocco a first AFCON crown on home soil.The match was marred by controversy, fan clashes, and farcical scenes: In the 90+20th minute of normal time, referee awarded Morocco a penalty after VAR review. Brahim Díaz missed it (saved or wide, depending on reports), sparking Senegal's brief walk-off protest before they returned. The deadlock held until extra time, where Gueye's stunner sealed the win under pouring rain. Senegal celebrated wildly, lifting the trophy for the second time in three tournaments.Key Moments & Match RecapNormal Time: Tense, cagey affair—0-0 at 90 minutes. Morocco dominated possession but lacked cutting edge; Senegal defended resolutely with Edouard Mendy key in goal. Stoppage-Time Drama: Penalty awarded to Morocco → Díaz misses → Senegal players walk off briefly in protest → return after delay → chaos in stands with supporter violence reported. Extra Time: Senegal break forward; Idrissa Gana Gueye finds Pape Gueye, who powers past defenders and fires home the winner (94'). Final Whistle: Senegal 1-0 Morocco (a.e.t.). Teranga Lions erupt; Morocco players and fans devastated. Senegal's win marks their second AFCON triumph in recent history, solidifying their status as a powerhouse. Morocco, despite a strong tournament run and home advantage, fall short again—extending their wait for a first title since 1976.Broader Implications & ReactionsSenegal: Coach Aliou Cissé hailed the resilience: "We fought for every ball—champions again!" Gueye's heroics and Mendy's saves were pivotal. Morocco: Hosts suffer heartbreak on home soil; Brahim Díaz's miss and the chaotic scenes drew criticism. FA president Faouzi Lekjaa faced scrutiny after a long push to host. Tournament Legacy: AFCON 2025 delivered drama, upsets, and quality—but the final's controversies (walk-off, penalty delay, fan issues) sparked debate on organization and refereeing. African Football: Senegal's back-to-back strong showings (winners 2022, finalists/champs 2025) vs. Morocco's near-miss highlight the continent's depth. At digital8hub.com, we cover sports news 2026, football recaps, AFCON highlights, fitness & endurance, and more. For breakdowns of AFCON stars, training tips inspired by African players, or gadgets for following matches (smart TVs, streaming apps), check our guides on sports, tech trends, and balanced living.Senegal are AFCON 2025 champions—history made in chaos, but football ultimately won. Congratulations to the Teranga Lions!