In brief
In a match filled with tension, Senegal emerged victorious over Morocco to secure their second Africa Cup of Nations title. However, the final was marred by incidents including a controversial penalty decision that led Senegal's players to briefly walk off the field, causing uproar among fans and criticism from football officials. Post-match reflections revealed deep frustrations about officiating and pregame treatment of the Senegalese team, indicating ongoing issues within African soccer.
Senegal beat Morocco to win the Africa Cup of Nations for a second time - but only after the final was overshadowed when they temporarily refused to play after the hosts were awarded a stoppage-time penalty with the match goalless.
Referee Jean Jacques Ndala gave the spot-kick in the 98th minute after being advised by the video assistant referee (VAR) to consult the pitchside monitor and review defender El Hadji Malick Diouf's challenge on Brahim Diaz.
Amid sensational scenes, head coach Pape Thiaw, still incensed by Ndala's decision moments earlier to disallow a Senegal goal, ushered his team off the field. Former Liverpool striker Sadio Mane stayed on the pitch and tried to encourage his Senegal teammates to finish the game.
Following a delay of around 17 minutes, the players did eventually return.
Real Madrid forward Diaz, the tournament's top scorer with five goals, was trusted with the penalty, but his tame 'Panenka' effort was caught by Senegal keeper Edouard Mendy who barely had to move, and Ndala immediately blew his whistle for full-time.
Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye then scored the winning goal in the fourth minute of extra time to seal a second triumph in five years for the Lions.
In his post-match news conference, Morocco coach Walid Regragui said Senegal's actions were shameful and do not honour Africa.
Fifa president Gianni Infantino strongly condemned the ugly scenes in a post on Instagram. After congratulating Senegal on their Afcon triumph and celebrating Morocco as exceptional hosts, Infantino stated that it was unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport. He emphasized that any decisions by match officials must always be respected.
The aftermath revolved around the controversy and criticisms about the penalty decision and the Senegalese players' response. Senegal's complaints about the treatment they received leading up to the final— including a perceived lack of security and inadequate hotel arrangements— inflamed tensions before the match.
While the match ended triumphantly for Senegal, those moments of chaos highlighted ongoing challenges within African football, showcasing the urgent need for improvements to ensure future tournaments foster respect and sportsmanship.
