Senegal were crowned 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions after edging hosts Morocco 1–0 in a tense final played on Sunday night at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
A 94th-minute strike from midfielder Pape Gueye silenced a packed Prince Moulay Abdellah and handed the Teranga Lions their second continental title.
The final, which brought together Africa’s two highest-ranked teams, lived up to expectations despite ending goalless in regular time.
With the score at 0–0 in the closing moments of regulation time, Morocco were awarded a penalty after a lengthy VAR review judged Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf to have fouled Brahim Díaz in the box.
Díaz stepped up but saw his attempted Panenka chip calmly saved by goalkeeper Édouard Mendy.
Earlier, Senegal thought they had taken the lead when Ismaila Sarr headed into the net, only for the goal to be ruled out for a foul.
In extra time, Senegal finally found their breakthrough.
Gueye’s goal sparked wild celebrations among Senegal’s players and the small section of Senegalese supporters in the stadium.
The victory marks Senegal’s second AFCON trophy, following their maiden win in 2022. For Morocco, the defeat ends a remarkable run as hosts, leaving them still searching for their first title since 1976.
Sadio Mané (Senegal) was named Player of the Competition, while Brahim Díaz (Morocco) claimed the Golden Boot with five goals.
Morocco were awarded the Fair Play Team prize, and Yassine Bounou of Morocco emerged as the Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament.
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