2025 AFCON: Mendy’s heroics and Gueye’s strike crown Senegal champions

Senegal were crowned Africa Cup of Nations champions for the second time after a night of high drama and raw emotion, edging hosts Morocco 1-0 in a gripping final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

In a contest defined by fine margins, controversy and moments of individual brilliance, the Teranga Lions held their nerve to deny Morocco on home soil and lift the 2025 AFCON trophy.

The final began at a breathless pace. Senegal showed their intent early, with Pape Gueye rising highest from a sixth-minute corner, only to be denied by an outstanding save from Morocco goalkeeper Bono. Iliman Ndiaye came even closer before the break, breaking clear in the 38th minute, but once again Bono reacted sharply to keep the score level.

Morocco responded with growing authority after the interval. Ayoub El Kaabi’s powerful effort in the 58th minute drifted narrowly wide, before Edouard Mendy produced a stunning point-blank save to deny Abde Ezzalzouli late on, keeping Senegal alive as tension rose inside the stadium.

The drama reached fever pitch deep into stoppage time. Senegal briefly thought they had taken the lead in the 93rd minute, only for the goal to be ruled out for a foul. Moments later, VAR intervened at the other end, awarding Morocco a penalty after a prolonged review that sparked furious protests from the Senegal camp.

Play was halted as players and staff demonstrated with officials, forcing security to step in. It was Senegal's main man Sadio Mané who eventually calmed his teammates and brought them back onto the pitch.

When Brahim Díaz finally stepped up in the 114th minute, the entire stadium held its breath. His audacious Panenka attempt was brilliantly read and saved by Mendy, whose composure proved decisive.

That moment shifted the momentum irreversibly.

Just minutes later, in the 94th minute of extra time, Pape Gueye produced the defining moment of the final. Driving forward from midfield, he skipped past two defenders before curling a superb strike from the edge of the box into the top-right corner, beyond Bono’s reach.

Morocco threw everything forward in search of an equaliser, urged on by a passionate home crowd, but Senegal stood firm to see out a famous victory.

For Senegal, it is a second continental crown, following their maiden triumph in 2021, and further confirmation of their place among Africa’s elite. For Morocco, it was a cruel ending to a tournament played largely in control, undone by a missed penalty and one moment of brilliance.

On a night of chaos, courage and composure, Senegal emerged champions, carried by Mendy’s heroics and sealed by Gueye’s unforgettable strike.