Senegal were crowned champions of Africa for the second time in their history after edging hosts Morocco 1–0 after extra time in a grilling final in Rabat.
The Teranga Lions started the game as the better side, creating and controlling large portions of the first half.
The Atlas Lions brought their A-game in the second half. Nayef Aguerd narrowly failed to connect with Abdessamad Ezzalzouli’s teasing cross that flashed across the face of the goal.
As if that was not enough, Ayoub El Kaabi spurned what could have turned the game in their favor.
Senegal thought they had a goal, but it was disallowed for a foul by Abdoulaye Seck in the 93rd minute of the game.
Morocco was awarded a late penalty after a VAR review; Brahim Diaz was manhandled by El Hadji Malick Diouf, but the resulting panenka was saved by Edward Mendy.
Villareal’s Pape Gueye unleashed a ferocious left-footed strike from the edge of the area beyond Bonou, sending the Senegalese bench into raptures and silencing a packed stadium desperate for a long-awaited home triumph.
Morocco pressed relentlessly, yet couldn’t find their cutting edge in the final third.
In the end, Senegal held firm for their second AFCON title.
