Senegal Edge Morocco in Dramatic AFCON Final to win Title

Senegal have emerged champions of the Africa Cup of Nations after a dramatic 1–0 extra-time victory over host nation Morocco in Rabat.

The final was overshadowed by controversy and crowd unrest, following a late penalty awarded to Morocco after a VAR review.

Real Madrid winger Brahim Diaz stepped up to take the spot-kick but Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved his weak chip after a long delay that disrupted the flow of the game.

Tensions boiled over as Senegal players and supporters protested the decision, with some fans attempting to invade the pitch before security restored order.

Moments later, Senegal seized the initiative as Pape Gueye find the back of the net in the fourth minute of extra time to silence the Moroccan crowd.

Morocco pushed for an equaliser and came close when Nayef Aguerd hit the crossbar in extra time, but Senegal held on despite missing a late chance to double their lead.

The win gives Senegal their second AFCON title in three tournaments, following their historic triumph in 2022.

For Morocco, the defeat ends hopes of lifting the trophy at home and ending a 50-year wait for a second continental title.