Senegal Claims AFCON Crown in Controversial Final Against Morocco
The African Cup of Nations final on Sunday night turned into a spectacle of chaos and controversy. Hosts Morocco faced Senegal in a match that will be remembered more for its dramatic stoppage-time events than the football itself. Senegal emerged victorious with a 1-0 win, but the title celebration was clouded by an unprecedented walk-out and VAR disputes.
Stoppage-Time Turmoil Erupts
The game seemed headed for a straightforward conclusion until the 93rd minute. Senegal thought they had scored a crucial goal, but the officials disallowed it. Moments later, the Video Assistant Referee intervened controversially. Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded a penalty to Morocco after reviewing an incident in the box.
Senegal full back El Hadji Malick Diouf had tugged Moroccan forward Brahim Diaz to the ground while defending a corner. This decision sparked immediate outrage from the Senegalese camp.
Walk-Out Creates 14-Minute Delay
Senegal coach Pape Bouna Thiaw made a shocking decision following the penalty award. He ordered his players to leave the field in protest. The Senegalese squad initially retreated toward their dressing room, causing complete confusion among officials and spectators.
The game came to an abrupt halt. Only after veteran forward Sadio Mane intervened and persuaded his teammates to return did play resume. This extraordinary protest resulted in a 14-minute delay that disrupted the match's momentum completely.
Penalty Miss and Decisive Goal
When the penalty was finally taken after the lengthy interruption, Morocco's Brahim Diaz produced a disappointing effort. His attempted panenka shot lacked conviction and Senegal goalkeeper Eduard Mendy saved it comfortably.
Morocco coach Walid Regragui later suggested the extended delay affected Diaz's concentration. The Moroccan star had been instrumental in his team's journey to the final, but this moment proved costly.
Just four minutes into extra time, Senegal's Pape Gueye settled the contest. He unleashed a spectacular long-range strike that found the back of the net, securing the African Cup of Nations title for his nation.
Post-Match Fallout and Criticism
The controversial events sparked strong reactions after the final whistle. Morocco's coach Regragui did not mince words in his assessment. He described the incident as damaging to African football's reputation.
"The image we've given of Africa is shameful," Regragui stated bluntly. "A coach who asks his players to leave the field ... What Pape did does not honour Africa. He wasn't classy."
Senegal coach Thiaw faced hostile questioning from Moroccan journalists during the post-match press conference. The event was eventually called off amid the tension. Reports indicate Thiaw could face disciplinary sanctions for his role in the walk-out incident.
Tournament Officiating Under Scrutiny
This final controversy added to existing concerns about officiating throughout the tournament. Multiple teams had previously complained about questionable decisions by match officials. However, no one anticipated a team would stage a walk-out during the championship match.
Despite the surrounding drama, Senegal players celebrated their hard-earned victory. Sadio Mane proudly lifted the trophy as his teammates rejoiced around him. The win marked another significant achievement for Senegalese football, though the manner of victory will undoubtedly fuel discussions for weeks to come.
The African Cup of Nations 2025 final has entered football history not just for its result, but for the extraordinary circumstances that unfolded during those tense final minutes. The controversy has raised important questions about sportsmanship, coaching decisions, and the impact of VAR technology in high-pressure situations.
