Senegal and Morocco faced off in one of the most anticipated Africa Cup of Nations finals in recent memory. The atmosphere in Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium was electric, with the host nation desperate to bring home their first AFCON trophy since 1976.

Senegal, meanwhile, were chasing a second title to cement their legacy after their breakthrough win in 2021. The match quickly turned from tense to chaotic and history will remember this final for far more than just the football.

The game was tightly contested, with both sides struggling to create clear chances across 90 minutes. It looked set for a nervy finish but things spiralled in stoppage time when VAR awarded Morocco a late penalty after minimal contact in the box. Senegal’s players were livid. In a dramatic moment, manager Pape Thiaw told his players to walk off the pitch in protest. For a few minutes, it looked like the final might be abandoned. CAF officials rushed to intervene, reportedly warning that failure to return could lead to disqualification. Eventually, under pressure, Senegal returned to play.

Then came the penalty itself. Morocco’s Brahim Díaz stepped up and attempted a Panenka under the weight of the nation watching  but Senegal keeper Edouard Mendy was ready. He stayed rooted and saved it, keeping the score 0–0 and giving Senegal a lifeline going into extra time. That moment proved decisive. With Morocco stunned and Senegal energised, it was Pape Gueye who stepped up as the hero. His goal in the 104th minute sent the Senegalese fans into chaos and silenced the home crowd.

Despite a late push from Morocco, Senegal held on for the win. The full-time whistle confirmed it: Senegal are now two-time AFCON champions. For Morocco, the heartbreak was clear after reaching new global heights in the 2022 World Cup and hosting this year’s tournament, they were seen as favourites. But when it mattered most, they fell short.

Senegal’s win is a moment of national pride, resilience, and a reminder that African football is as emotionally charged and unpredictable as it gets.

Online, the reaction has been non-stop. From Díaz’s missed Panenka to Senegal’s temporary walk-off, fans are already arguing over the VAR call, the referee’s handling, and whether Senegal should’ve even been allowed to continue. Some called the penalty “soft”. Others said Senegal’s protest was “legendary”.

Pape Gueye’s name is already trending. Edouard Mendy’s save might go down as one of the most important in his international career. And Morocco? They’ll have to regroup, reflect, and recover from a final that slipped away in the most brutal fashion.

Senegal came, they protested, and they conquered — all in one unforgettable night in Rabat.

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