The AFCON 2025/2026 final, held on 18 January 2026 in Morocco, will forever be remembered in the history of African football. It was a night of intense emotion, last-second drama, and a conclusion that crowned Senegal as AFCON champions for the second time in their history.
In an electrifying clash between Senegal and Morocco, the Senegalese team showed composure, unity and competitive spirit to win 1–0, in a match that had it all and perfectly symbolised the passion of African football.
A balanced and fiercely contested AFCON final from start to finish
From the first whistle, it was clear this would be a final worthy of AFCON. Senegal and Morocco gave everything, with maximum intensity, constant physical duels and strong tactical discipline.
During regular time, both sides created chances, but the defences stayed alert. Senegal showed organisation and maturity, while Morocco, backed by the home crowd, tried to take control of the game.
Despite efforts from both teams, the score remained 0–0 at the end of 90 minutes in a game defined by balance and growing tension.
Penalty, chaos and a moment that changed everything
In the dying minutes of the second half, as the game seemed destined for extra time, the referee awarded a penalty to Morocco after eight minutes of stoppage time.
The decision caused huge controversy. Senegal’s players, outraged, even threatened to leave the pitch, leading to a 10-minute commotion that increased the tension in the stadium even further.
At the decisive moment, Brahim Díaz — until then the star of AFCON and top scorer with five goals — stepped up to take the spot-kick. However, he missed, wasting the chance to give the hosts the title and sending the game into extra time.
Pape Gueye decides and Senegal writes another golden chapter
The psychological impact of the missed penalty was evident. Morocco entered extra time visibly deflated, while Senegal maintained focus and confidence.
Just four minutes into the first half of extra time, the decisive moment came. Pape Gueye appeared in the final third and scored the goal that sent Senegalese fans into jubilation, sealing the 1–0 victory.
It was a champion’s goal, reflecting Senegal’s resilience and collective spirit throughout the entire AFCON.
Sadio Mané lifts the trophy on a historic night
The final also held special significance within the Senegalese squad. The usual captain, Kalidou Koulibaly, missed the match due to suspension after receiving a yellow card in the semi-final against Egypt.
As a result, Sadio Mané inherited the captain’s armband for the final and was the one to lift the AFCON trophy, in a moment full of emotion. Beyond leading on the pitch, Mané was also named Player of the Tournament, capping off a memorable campaign, in what could have been his last AFCON of his professional career.
AFCON 2025/2026 individual awards
The grand final also concluded the chapter on the tournament’s individual awards:
- Best Player: Sadio Mané (Senegal)
- Top Scorer: Brahim Díaz (Morocco) – 5 goals
- Best Goalkeeper: Yassine Bounou “Bono” (Morocco)
These recognitions reflect the talent and high level displayed throughout AFCON.
Thank you for being part of this journey with Guinée Games
AFCON 2025/2026 was a true celebration of football, African pride, and the unity of nations. Throughout the tournament, we experienced unforgettable moments, great matches, and intense emotions together.
Guinée Games thanks you for joining us on this journey, for being part of this celebration, and for living the AFCON with us, both on and off the pitch.
The future awaits: AFCON 2027
As we close this memorable chapter, our attention already turns to the future. The next AFCON will take place in 2027, hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
Until then, we will continue to celebrate African football together, the passion for our national teams, and the unique spirit that only AFCON can provide.
In the meantime, the excitement never stops, and there is plenty of quality football happening around the world. Check out the main leagues and place your bets on our site.
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