Pape Guaye scores late winner as Senegal beat Morocco to win AFCON

By Tosin Omojola –

It was a dramatic climax to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as the Teranga Lions of Senegal defeated hosts Morocco 1–0 in the final played on Sunday night.

Pape Guaye’s brilliantly taken strike in the fourth minute of extra time broke Moroccan hearts in front of their mammoth home crowd.

The final produced no winner after regulation time, with both the first and second 45 minutes ending goalless, necessitating 30 minutes of extra time.

The victory marked Senegal’s second triumph at the African football showpiece, following their maiden title win in 2021 when they defeated Egypt’s Pharaohs on penalties.

Sunday’s appearance in the final was Senegal’s fourth, having previously featured in the 2002, 2019 and 2021 grand finales.

It was a painful end for the Moroccans, who had hoped to clinch the title on home soil but saw their dream collapse on the final day.

Morocco appeared set to lift the trophy when they were awarded a penalty kick in the 92nd minute, a decision that led to a temporary stoppage as Senegalese players walked off the pitch in protest.

The controversy followed the disallowing of a Senegalese goal by the referee, a decision that sparked wild reactions from Senegalese fans.