By Kwame Bediako
Senegal clinched the Africa Cup of Nations title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Morocco in extra time, thanks to Pape Gueye’s decisive strike, but the final will be remembered as much for its controversy as its quality.
The match, held in a packed stadium buzzing with anticipation, descended into chaos late in normal time when a controversial penalty was awarded to Morocco in injury time.
Referee decisions ignited fury, turning what promised to be a celebratory showcase of African football into a flashpoint of tension.
Several Senegal players, visibly outraged by the call, walked off the pitch in protest, halting play momentarily as officials scrambled to restore order.
The incident stemmed from what many viewed as a soft foul in the box, awarding Morocco a chance to level the scoreline at 0-0.
Tensions spilled beyond the field, with clashes erupting among supporters in the stands, prompting security to intervene swiftly.
Despite the disruption, the game resumed, underscoring the high stakes of the continental showdown.
Morocco’s penalty taker Brahim Daiz stepped up under immense pressure but could not convert, keeping Senegal’s dreams alive heading into extra time.
The Lions of Teranga regrouped with resilience, channeling their frustration into focused attacking play.
Pape Gueye, emerging as the hero of the night, latched onto a precise through-ball in the 108th minute, slotting home past the Moroccan keeper to send his nation into ecstasy.
The victory marks Senegal’s second AFCON title, building on their 2021 triumph and solidifying their status as a powerhouse in African football.
Pape Gueye’s goal not only secured the trophy but also highlighted Senegal’s depth and determination on the biggest stage.
