AFCON 2025 final: A night to remember for Senegal, Sadio Mané

By Tosin Omojola –

Senegal star Sadio Mané went the extra mile to rally his teammates after they angrily left the pitch in protest against a penalty awarded to hosts Morocco, and the effort eventually paid off.

“What an ambassador for football he is. We know the kind of person he is off the pitch, and he knows what football is all about,” said former Nigerian international and BBC AFCON 2025 commentator, Daniel Amokachi.

Brahim Díaz missed the spot-kick, throwing away the chance to crown an impressive tournament in which he scored five goals.

Morocco had only themselves to blame, having missed several opportunities to become champions.

In injury time at the end of normal time, Senegal had a goal disallowed. Minutes later, Morocco were awarded a penalty very late in normal time.

That decision led to the Senegal players leaving the pitch in protest for several minutes before returning.

Brahim Díaz then attempted a Panenka from the spot with the last kick of the game, but Edouard Mendy saved it.

Four minutes into extra time, Pape Gueye put Senegal in front, and the goal proved decisive as the Teranga Lions claimed the 35th AFCON title.