Senegal beats hosts Morocco to claim 2nd AFCON title in dramatic final

ISTANBUL

Senegal won the 35th Africa Cup of Nations title on Sunday, defeating hosts Morocco 1-0 after extra time in a dramatic final marked by lengthy stoppage-time scenes.

The match at the 69,500-seat Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat ended goalless in regular time after a tense, tactical battle.

Morocco were awarded a penalty in the 95th minute following a VAR review that ruled Senegal left-back Malick Diouf had fouled winger Brahim Diaz in the box. The decision sparked heated protests from Senegal players and led to a long delay.

When play resumed in the 24th minute of stoppage time, Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved Diaz’s Panenka-style penalty, sending the match into extra time.

Senegal finally broke the deadlock in the 94th minute when Pape Gueye struck the decisive goal.

The win secured Senegal’s second straight AFCON title after their first triumph in the previous edition and denied Morocco a home-soil victory.