Algerian Radio
The Senegalese national team has clinched the Africa Cup of Nations title for the second time in its history, following a 1-0 victory over Morocco in extra time, after the regular 90 minutes ended in a goalless draw. The final brought the two teams together yesterday evening, Sunday.
The AFCON 2025 final was marked by a series of controversial refereeing decisions—a prominent feature throughout numerous matches in the tournament.
The only goal of the match was scored by Pape Guèye in the 114th minute of the first half of extra time, with a powerful strike that secured the "Lions of Teranga" their second continental title.
The closing moments of regular time witnessed tense scenes, as controversial refereeing decisions sparked outrage within the Senegalese camp, escalating to the point of a temporary walkoff in protest against what the players and coaching staff deemed blatant officiating injustice. This followed the referee's decision to award a penalty to Morocco in the 94th minute—a call described by the Senegalese side as unjustified and imaginary, igniting widespread protests on the pitch and plunging the match into a highly charged atmosphere.
Earlier in the game, the referee had disallowed a legitimate Senegalese goal, citing an infringement in a previous passage of play—a decision the players viewed as part of a pattern of unfair rulings, reinforcing their belief that the principle of officiating integrity had been clearly compromised in a continental final.
In a broader context, these events have reignited the controversy that has surrounded the 2025 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations. Several national teams had previously expressed dissatisfaction with the officiating standards throughout the tournament, complaining of decisions allegedly favoring the host nation—turning the competition into a focal point of extensive media debate and sustained criticism from fans.
