Senegal Defeat Morocco to Win Second Africa Cup of Nations Title

The Teranga Lions of Senegal have been crowned Africa Cup of Nations champions after a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Morocco in Sunday’s final in Rabat.

It is their second continental title and confirming their place among Africa’s modern football powers.

In a tense and tightly contested contest at a packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the Lions of Teranga showed composure, discipline, and resilience to overcome a spirited Moroccan side playing in front of their thousands of home supporters.

Decisive Goal Settles Tight AFCON Final

Image: Papa Gueye, Senegal Goalscorer

The breakthrough came midway through extra time when Senegal converted their best spell of pressure into the game’s only goal.

Pape Gueye scored a beauty in the first period of extra time to give the Teranga Lions a dramatic 1-0 win over Morocco to claim their second Africa Cup of Nations title

Morocco responded with urgency, and missed big chances, but Senegal’s defensive structure remained solid, denying the hosts clear-cut chances.

Mendy and Defence Hold Firm Under Pressure

Goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, who is currently playing in the Saudi Professional League, produced a series of important saves to safeguard Senegal’s lead.

Captain Sadio Mané led by example, contributing defensively, pressing high up the pitch, and guiding his teammates through a nervy finish.

Second AFCON Crown Confirms Senegal’s Rise

Image: Senegal Players Lifting the AFCON Trophy

The victory delivers Senegal their second Africa Cup of Nations title, adding to their maiden triumph in 2021, after they beat the Pharaohs’ of Egypt in penalty shootout, with Manè scoring the winning

The Senegalese are reinforcing their reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent and competitive national teams in recent years.

Morocco Fall Short on Home Soil

Image: Brahimi Diaz

For Morocco, the defeat brings heartbreak after a strong tournament campaign played largely in front of home fans.

The Atlas Lions pushed hard for an equaliser late on but were unable to break down a well-organised Senegal side in the final.

Morocco were awarded a controversial penalty in the last 90+8 minutes of the game.

Brahimi Diaz, who won the AFCON golden boot with five goals, missed the penalty with a failed paneka saved by Mendy.

Honors

Sadio Manè won the tournament’s Man of the Competition, making it his second CAF AFCON Man of the Competition.

Brahimi Diaz won Puma Golden Boot award, scoring five goals, whilst his team won CAF Fair Play Award.

Morocco goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou won the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper award.

The match winner, Papa Gueye was awarded Man of the Match for his outstanding performance and electric goal that gave Senegal the title.