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Senegal wins chaotic AFCON 2025 final against Morocco amid walk-off protest and controversial penalty
Senegal defeated host nation Morocco 1-0 in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final on January 18, 2026, in Rabat, securing their second title via a goal in extra time amid controversy over a missed penalty and a walk-off protest.
Why It Matters
The match marked Senegal's second AFCON triumph and Morocco's first final loss as hosts in decades, sparking debates on refereeing decisions in African football's premier tournament.
Timeline
7 Events
Senegal clinches title
January 18, 2026, full-time
Senegal wins 1-0, securing their second AFCON title.
Morocco walk-off protest
January 18, 2026, in match
Morocco players stage walk-off protest amid disputes over decisions including a disallowed Senegal goal.
Pape Gueye goal for Senegal
January 18, 2026, extra time
Pape Gueye scores the decisive goal for Senegal in extra time.
Controversial penalty for Morocco
January 18, 2026, extra time
Morocco awarded a highly contested penalty; Brahim Diaz misses, sparking outrage from Senegal.
Second half resumes
January 18, 2026, approx. 8:11 p.m. GMT
Second half starts with both teams struggling to break the deadlock.
Half-time
January 18, 2026, approx. 7:58 p.m. GMT
Score remains 0-0 at half-time after a captivating first half.
Match kick-off
January 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. GMT
Senegal vs Morocco AFCON 2025 final begins at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.