A Tense Opening with High Stakes
From the kickoff, both teams displayed the intensity expected in a continental final. Senegal, aiming for their second AFCON title after their 2021 triumph, relied on a solid defensive structure led by stars like Kalidou Koulibaly and the creative flair of Sadio Mané. Morocco, playing on home soil and backed by a roaring crowd, sought their first AFCON win since 1976, with players like Achraf Hakimi and Youssef En-Nesyri pushing for dominance.
The first half was a cagey affair, with neither side willing to take unnecessary risks. Senegal controlled possession early on, but Morocco's counter-attacks kept the Teranga Lions on their toes. A yellow card to Senegal's Lamine Camara in the 24th minute for tripping set the tone for a physical encounter. Despite several half-chances, including a close-range header from En-Nesyri that was saved by Senegal's goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, the score remained level at halftime.
Second Half Drama Builds
The second period saw both teams ramp up the pressure. Morocco dominated territorially, but Senegal's resilience shone through. Key substitutions, including Morocco bringing on Brahim Diaz to add creativity, shifted the momentum slightly toward the hosts. Senegal countered with fresh legs in midfield to maintain their shape.
As the clock ticked into stoppage time, the match seemed destined for extra time. But then, controversy struck. In a decision that will be debated for years, referee Jean-Jacques Ndala from the Democratic Republic of Congo was called to the VAR monitor after an alleged foul by Senegal's El Hadji Malick Diouf on Diaz inside the penalty area. The spot-kick was awarded, sparking outrage from the Senegal bench.
The Walk-Off That Stunned the World
In an unprecedented move, Senegal's players, led by their manager, stormed off the pitch in protest. Clashes erupted among supporters in the stands, and the game was halted for nearly 20 minutes. Officials scrambled to restore order, with Senegal threatening to abandon the final altogether. After intense negotiations, the players returned, but the atmosphere was electric with tension.
Diaz stepped up for the penalty, attempting a cheeky Panenka. However, Mendy read it perfectly, staying central to make the save. The miss sent the stadium into a frenzy and forced the game into extra time.
Extra Time Heroics
Extra time brought renewed energy, and it was Senegal who struck first. Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye unleashed a thunderous strike from outside the box, finding the top corner and sending the Senegal fans into ecstasy. The goal proved decisive as Senegal's defense held firm against Morocco's desperate attacks.
Morocco pushed hard for an equalizer, but Senegal's backline, anchored by Koulibaly, repelled wave after wave. A late yellow card and missed opportunities sealed the hosts' fate.
Post-Match Reactions and Legacy
Senegal celebrated wildly as the final whistle blew, lifting the trophy for the second time in their history. Manager Aliou Cissé praised his team's resilience: "This was more than a game; it was a battle of wills. Our players showed incredible character."
Morocco's coach Walid Regragui expressed disappointment but acknowledged the drama: "Football can be cruel, but we fought until the end. The penalty decision changed everything."
The match has sparked widespread debate about VAR's role in high-stakes games and refereeing standards in African football. For Senegal, it's a triumphant tale of overcoming adversity. For Morocco, a heartbreaking near-miss on home soil.
This AFCON final will be remembered not just for the football, but for the sheer chaos that unfolded. What a night in Rabat!