Senegal beats Morocco 1-0 in extra time to win AFCON final
Senegal stunned Morocco 1-0 in extra time to win the Africa Cup of Nations final at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on January 18, 2026. Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal in the 94th minute of extra time after a chaotic match marred by controversy.
The final was decided by a dramatic penalty drama. Morocco's Brahim Diaz was given a spot-kick in the 24th added minute at the end of normal time, but Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved his weak chip. The penalty award followed a long delay and a VAR check for a challenge on Diaz by Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf, which sparked furious protests from Senegal and led to some of their fans throwing chairs and attempting to storm the pitch.
Morocco missed the chance to end a 50-year wait for a second AFCON title in front of their home crowd. Senegal, however, claimed their second trophy in three editions, adding to their 2022 victory over Egypt. Sadio Mane, who had hinted this would be his last AFCON, assisted Idrissa Gana Gueye, who set up the match-winner Pape Gueye.
The victory secures Senegal's place at the World Cup in the US this June. For West African football fans, it's a moment of continental pride but also a stark reminder of the fine margins and high tensions that decide these tournaments. With incident on and off the pitch, is this AFCON final a showcase of elite talent or a case study in how pressure and contentious calls can overshadow the sport?