Fans across Africa and beyond erupted in celebration on Sunday night as Senegal defeated hosts Morocco to win the AFCON 2025 title, bringing a dramatic, controversy-filled tournament to a fitting conclusion.
The nervy final, decided in extra time, delivered high tension, disputed officiating calls and a moment many supporters described as “pure footballing justice”, with the Teranga Lions emerging victorious against the odds.
A Cagey Final Filled With Drama and Controversy
From the opening whistle in Rabat, the AFCON 2025 final was a tightly contested tactical battle. Both Senegal and Morocco cancelled each other out for long stretches, limiting clear chances in a match defined more by discipline than flair.
Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was called into action several times, producing a standout first-half save to deny Iliman Ndiaye in a one-on-one situation that could have tilted the game Senegal’s way early on.
Late in normal time, Senegal thought they had finally broken the deadlock, only for the goal to be ruled out for a contentious foul in the build-up a decision that sparked visible frustration on the Senegalese bench.
VAR Drama, Mané’s Leadership and a Turning Point
The tension peaked deep into stoppage time when VAR awarded Morocco a controversial penalty, a call that reignited criticism surrounding officiating decisions involving the host nation throughout the tournament.
Angered by the decision, Senegal’s players briefly walked off the pitch in protest. Captain Sadio Mané played a crucial leadership role, calming his teammates and convincing them to return and finish the match.
That composure proved decisive. Edouard Mendy saved Brahim Díaz’s Panenka penalty, sending the game into extra time and shifting momentum firmly in Senegal’s favour.
Just four minutes into extra time, Pape Gueye delivered the decisive moment unleashing a thunderous strike from outside the box in the 94th minute to seal a famous Senegalese victory.
“Football Won” Trends as Fans React Online
As the final whistle blew, social media platforms especially X (formerly Twitter) exploded with reactions. The phrase “Football won” quickly trended, alongside pointed comments claiming “corruption lost”, reflecting widespread frustration over perceived favourable refereeing for Morocco during AFCON 2025.
Fans referenced Morocco’s controversial matches earlier in the tournament, including their penalty shootout victory over Nigeria and disputed decisions involving Cameroon, arguing that Senegal’s triumph felt like long-awaited justice.
One fan summed up the mood online:
“Football won against corruption. Congratulations, Senegal.”
A Final That Will Be Remembered
While debates over officiating are likely to linger, Senegal’s resilience, leadership and ability to deliver under pressure ultimately defined the night.
Pape Gueye’s stunning winner and Mané’s calm authority ensured the AFCON 2025 final will be remembered not just for controversy, but for a moment many fans believe restored faith in the game.
