It was a night that will live forever in African football history.
The Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco descended into pure chaos deep in stoppage time when the referee awarded Morocco a controversial penalty in the 90+8 minute for a foul on Brahim Díaz.
The decision sparked outrage from the Senegal camp, who were still furious after having a goal disallowed moments earlier in the 90+2 minute.
Incensed by the call, Senegal coach Pape Thiaw instructed his players to walk off the pitch in protest. Several players followed, and the final appeared on the brink of abandonment.
Then came the moment that defined the night — and a legacy.
Captain Sadio Mané, Senegal’s talisman and greatest football icon, stepped forward. In the middle of the confusion, he urged his teammates to return to the field and fight on.
Led by their captain, the Lions of Teranga came back.
Morocco’s Brahim Díaz stepped up to take the penalty, attempting a bold Panenka. But Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy stood firm, producing a stunning save before pointing to the sky in celebration — a moment many described as divine justice.
The drama was far from over.
At the start of extra time, Senegal struck. Pape Gueye unleashed a breathtaking goal that sent the Senegalese bench, fans, and an entire nation into raptures. From that moment on, there was no turning back.
Senegal held on to secure a historic victory, sealing their second Africa Cup of Nations title and confirming their status as the kings of African football.
OFFICIAL: Senegal are AFCON champions once again — adding the 2025 crown to their triumph in 2021, alongside their runners-up finish in 2002.
The victory carried extra emotion. Just days earlier, Sadio Mané had announced that the final against Morocco would be his last AFCON match.
“I hope we win it and take the trophy to Dakar,” he said.
In the end, he did more than hope. He led, inspired, and delivered.
From pulling his team back onto the pitch to lifting the trophy one final time, Mané wrote the perfect final chapter to his AFCON story — cementing his place as a true legend of African football.
History was made. Senegal reigns supreme. 🇸🇳🏆