Senegal stun hosts Morocco to win AFCON 2026

• Senegal secured their second Africa Cup of Nations trophy with a 1-0 extra-time victory over host nation Morocco, ending the "Atlas Lions'" 17-year unbeaten competitive streak in Rabat.
• The match was halted for 20 minutes following fierce Senegalese protests over a 97th-minute Moroccan penalty; however, Brahim Díaz’s attempt was saved, allowing Pape Gueye to later net the winning goal.

Senegal stunned Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations final on Sunday as Pape Gueye's goal gave them a 1-0 extra-time win in a game marred by ugly incidents following a controversial penalty award.

Several Senegal players walked off the pitch in disgust and clashes erupted among their supporters after Morocco were given a spot-kick in injury time at the end of normal time.

The game restarted after a delay of almost 20 minutes but Brahim Diaz's penalty was saved, taking the final to extra time where Gueye scored before Senegal held on to win the continental title for the second time.

The victory, achieved before a capacity crowd of 70,000 spectators, sparked jubilant celebrations for the "Teranga Lions" in the heart of the Moroccan capital.

The match was a high-stakes tactical battle that remained scoreless throughout regulation time. Senegal appeared to have found the breakthrough in the 92nd minute when Abdoulaye Seck found the back of the net. However, Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala overturned the goal following a VAR review, citing a foul in the buildup.

The tension reached a fever pitch in the 96th minute when the referee consulted the video monitor again, this time awarding a penalty to Morocco in the 97th minute.

The decision triggered heavy protests from the Senegalese squad and a temporary halt in play. Despite the late pressure, Senegal maintained their composure to secure the win and lift the trophy.

Bounou's Heroics and Missed Chances

Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou played a starring role in keeping the hosts in the game. He produced a crucial save in the 38th minute against a one-on-one break and again in the 89th minute to deny Ibrahim Mbaye.

Conversely, Morocco’s attack struggled to capitalize on key moments. Striker Ayoub El Kaabi missed a golden opportunity in the 58th minute, firing wide of the post after receiving a precision cross from Bilal El Khannouss.

Historic Victory

The win carries significant historical weight, as Senegal broke Morocco’s formidable home-field advantage. Morocco had not lost a competitive match in Rabat since 2009. Sadio Mané and his teammates hoisted the trophy amid a dramatic atmosphere that will likely be debated by football fans for years to come.