Senegal defeated host nation Morocco 1-0 in extra time to win the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final on Sunday, following a controversial walk-off protest by the Senegalese team. The victory, held at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, was secured by midfielder Pape Gueye's goal in the 94th minute.
The match was marred by a 14-minute delay late in the second half when a penalty was awarded to Morocco after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review determined that Senegal's defender had tugged Brahim Diaz to the ground. Diaz, however, failed to convert the penalty, sending his shot wide. In protest of the penalty decision, Senegal's coach Pape Bouna Thiaw ordered his players off the pitch. It was star player Sadio Mane who ultimately persuaded his teammates to return and continue the match.
The incident highlights the intense pressure and scrutiny surrounding officiating in African football, where decisions are often viewed through a lens of national pride and regional rivalries. VAR, while intended to improve accuracy, has at times been a source of further contention, sparking debates about its implementation and interpretation across different leagues and tournaments.
Senegal's victory marks their second AFCON title, solidifying their position as a dominant force in African football. The win is a significant achievement for the nation, which has invested heavily in football development in recent years. For Morocco, the loss is a bitter disappointment, especially as hosts, and represents another near miss in their quest for a second AFCON title, their first coming in 1976.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is expected to review the events surrounding the walk-off protest. The incident could potentially lead to sanctions, depending on the findings of the review. The victory celebrations in Senegal are expected to continue for several days, while in Morocco, the focus will likely shift to analyzing the factors that contributed to their defeat and preparing for future competitions.
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