In a climactic conclusion to the continental tournament, Senegal secured its second-ever African championship title, overcoming host nation Morocco in a tense final that extended into extra time. The decisive moment arrived when Pape Gueye, seizing an opportunity on the periphery of the penalty area, unleashed a magnificent left-footed drive that found the back of the net, sparking jubilant celebrations among the Senegalese contingent and stunning the capacity crowd in Rabat who had fervently anticipated a home victory.
Nigeria Clinches Third Place in Tense Penalty Shootout
Earlier in the day, the bronze medal was determined in a match that culminated in a dramatic penalty shootout. Nigeria ultimately prevailed over Mali, securing third place in the competition. The encounter was notably influenced by a pivotal red card shown to Mali’s Kiki Kouyate in the 30th minute, a decision that forced the Eagles to contest the majority of the match with a numerical disadvantage. Despite this setback, Mali demonstrated remarkable resilience, managing to hold the Super Eagles to a 0-0 draw during regulation and extra time, only to see their efforts undone in the ensuing penalty drama.
The final itself, contested at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, was a spectacle of high stakes and intense emotion. Morocco, carrying the hopes of a nation as tournament hosts, created several promising opportunities but was ultimately thwarted by a disciplined Senegalese defense and the brilliance of Gueye’s solitary strike. This victory solidifies Senegal’s status as a footballing powerhouse on the continent, adding a second star to its crest following its initial triumph in 2022.
For Morocco, the quest for a first AFCON title since 1976 continues, the dream deferred once more on home soil. The tournament, sponsored by TotalEnergies, showcased the ever-increasing quality and competitive parity within African football, with the final day providing a fittingly dramatic finale to the weeks of competition.