Gueye Wonder Strike Seals AFCON Glory for Senegal in Chaotic Final

Senegal were crowned Africa Cup of Nations champions after edging hosts Morocco 1-0 in an extraordinary and highly controversial final, with Pape Gueye’s stunning extra-time strike settling a match that descended into chaos late on.

The Lions of Teranga secured their second AFCON title in Rabat after a dramatic encounter that saw them temporarily leave the pitch in protest following the award of a late penalty to Morocco during stoppage time.

The decisive moment came just three minutes into extra time when Gueye powered his way to the edge of the penalty area before unleashing an unstoppable drive into the far corner, igniting wild celebrations among the Senegalese players and supporters.

The final was largely subdued for the opening 90 minutes, with chances at a premium. Iliman Ndiaye and Nayef Aguerd both missed opportunities late in the first half, while Morocco forward Ayoub El Kaabi skewed a close-range effort wide shortly before the hour mark.

A lengthy delay followed a heavy collision between Senegal’s El Hadji Malick Diouf and Morocco midfielder Neil El Aynaoui, who suffered a head injury that required treatment. Although El Aynaoui was able to continue, the incident contributed to an extended period of second-half stoppage time.

Drama erupted in the first minute of added time when Senegal appeared to have taken the lead. Idrissa Gueye’s header struck the post and Ismaila Sarr reacted quickest to turn the rebound home, only for referee Jean-Jacques Ndala to rule the goal out for a foul on Achraf Hakimi in the build-up.

The decision infuriated the Senegalese camp, and tensions escalated further moments later when Brahim Díaz was awarded a penalty after being adjudged to have been fouled by Diouf inside the box.

Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw responded by instructing his players to walk off the pitch in protest, while captain Sadio Mané attempted to persuade his teammates to continue. After a prolonged delay, the players eventually returned and the penalty was taken in the 24th minute of stoppage time.

Díaz attempted an audacious Panenka, but his effort was comfortably gathered by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, drawing tears from the Real Madrid forward as regulation time finally came to an end.

Morocco’s disappointment deepened almost immediately in extra time. Gueye’s thunderous strike broke the deadlock and proved decisive, although there were still chances at both ends. Aguerd headed against the crossbar for the hosts, while Senegal substitute Chérif Ndiaye somehow missed an open goal at the other end.

The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among the Senegal players and supporters, capping a dramatic night that may also mark Sadio Mané’s final appearance in the Africa Cup of Nations.