Chaos and Controversy: Senegal's Triumph Over Morocco at AFCON 2025

Mon Jan 19 2026 17:44:49 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The Africa Cup of Nations final was tainted by chaos as Senegal secured victory against Morocco amidst referee controversies and fan disturbances.

Senegal clinched the Africa Cup of Nations title after a tumultuous final against Morocco, which was marred by protests from Senegal's players over a late penalty decision. The match faced significant disruptions as the Senegal team temporarily refused to play, leading to a chaotic scene as fans clashed with security. Despite these incidents, Senegal emerged victorious when Pape Gueye scored in extra time, leading to mixed reactions from fans and officials alike.

Senegal Beats Morocco Amid Chaos at AFCON Final

Senegal beat Morocco to win the Africa Cup of Nations for a second time, but the final was overshadowed by chaos after Senegal temporarily refused to play when the hosts were awarded a stoppage-time penalty while the score was goalless.

Referee Jean Jacques Ndala awarded the penalty in the 98th minute following a VAR review of a challenge by Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf on Morocco's Brahim Diaz.

Senegal's head coach Pape Thiaw was infuriated by the penalty decision, especially after a Senegal goal was disallowed moments earlier. He led his team off the field, creating a significant delay in the match.

Former Liverpool striker Sadio Mane remained on the pitch, urging his teammates to play on. After a 17-minute delay, the players returned to the field.

Diaz, the tournament's top scorer, took the penalty but his weak 'Panenka' attempt was easily saved by Senegal keeper Edouard Mendy, who barely had to move. The whistle soon blew for full-time, which left Senegal in a state of disbelief.

Pape Gueye eventually scored the winning goal in the fourth minute of extra time, sealing Senegal's second AFCON title in five years.

After the match, Morocco's coach Walid Regragui described Senegal's actions as 'shameful' and detrimental to African football. In response, FIFA President Gianni Infantino condemned the 'ugly scenes' that unfolded during the final.

Thiaw later acknowledged his mistake in directing his team off the pitch and expressed regret for the disruption caused.

Infantino released a statement following the match that emphasized the importance of treating referees' decisions with respect, noting that such conduct can undermine the integrity of football.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) followed with a strong condemnation of the incidents and indicated that disciplinary actions would be taken against those involved.

This year's final had been marked by high emotions and mixed reactions regarding officiating and VAR decisions, with Senegal raising concerns about inadequate security leading up to the match.

Despite the controversy, Senegal's triumphant moment was bittersweet, overshadowed by the chaos that marred the event.