Senegal clinched the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 title, defeating hosts Morocco 1-0 in a dramatic final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. The decisive goal came in extra time from Pape Gueye, but the match was marred by controversy and chaotic scenes, including a disputed penalty decision and a brief walk-off by the Senegalese team.

The final was a tense affair with limited clear openings, characteristic of the defensive strength of both African powerhouses. Neither side could break the deadlock in 90 minutes. However, the game erupted into controversy deep into stoppage time when Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala, after a VAR review, awarded Morocco a penalty for a challenge on Brahim Diaz by Senegal's El Hadji Malick Diouf. This decision ignited furious protests from the Senegal camp and their fans.

In a remarkable display of dissent, Senegal's coach Pape Thiaw, according to one report, ordered his players off the pitch, leading to a delay of over 14 minutes. Senegal supporters at one end of the stadium reacted by throwing chairs and objects, attempting to storm the field before being contained by security. Prior to this, Senegal had also been riled by the referee's decision to disallow a goal by Ismaila Sarr in the second added minute of normal time due to a foul.

Despite the long delay and the uproar, Brahim Diaz, the Real Madrid winger, stepped up to take the spot-kick. His attempted 'Panenka' chip was weak and easily saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, who appeared unfazed by the preceding chaos. Pape Gueye, the eventual match-winner, later recounted that Sadio Mane had urged the team to return to the pitch for the penalty, stating,