enegal clinched its second African Cup of Nations title in a final marred by controversy and near-chaos at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. The match descended into turmoil when referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a controversial penalty in the 98th minute, prompting Senegalese players to threaten a walkout in protest.
Mane’s Leadership Prevents Pitch Walkout
The crisis was averted when Sadio Mane, one of Africa’s finest players, defied coach Pape Thiaw’s walkout order and pleaded with teammates to remain on the pitch. His intervention proved decisive as Real Madrid winger Brahim Díaz fluffed the penalty with a weak Panenka chip that goalkeeper Edouard Mendy easily saved. Mane’s leadership restored focus to the Senegalese squad, enabling them to refocus their efforts despite the injustice they felt.
Gueye’s Extra-Time Winner Claims Glory
Senegal’s resilience paid off when Pape Gueye delivered a spectacular strike in the fourth minute of extra time to secure the championship. The victory ended a five-year wait for Senegal, with Gueye scoring the decisive goal that crowned them continental champions. The dramatic turnaround demonstrated how mental fortitude and experienced leadership could overcome adversity on football’s biggest stages.
Post-match, Morocco coach Walid Regragui criticized Senegal’s Pape Thiaw for damaging Africa’s image through the walkout threat, while Thiaw subsequently apologized for his reaction. Despite the controversy, Senegal’s triumph represents a significant achievement in African football, though the final will be remembered as much for its dramatic off-field chaos as for the sporting excellence displayed.