Rabat: Senegal’s national football team won the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, beating Morocco by a single goal after extra time (0-0 at fulltime) on Sunday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, this fixture marked the first knockout stage meeting between Senegal and Morocco in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations. Morocco’s coach, Walid Regragui, opted for consistency by fielding the same starting eleven, while Senegal’s Pape Thiaw made several strategic changes to compensate for the last-minute absences of key players Kalidou Koulibaly, Habib Diarra, and Krépin Diatta.

The match began with Senegal creating the first significant chance after five minutes, when Pape Gueye’s close-range header from a corner was blocked by Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. Morocco responded two minutes later with Ezzalzouli delivering a dangerous cross, though it was ultimately cleared by the Senegalese defense.

As the game progressed, both teams adopted a cautious approa
ch, maintaining a tactical battle in midfield with Senegal having a slight edge in possession. In the 38th minute, Senegal’s Ndiaye had a promising opportunity thwarted by Bounou’s skillful save. Morocco threatened five minutes later through Aguerd, whose header narrowly missed the target following a cross from Ezzalzouli.

The second half saw Morocco intensify their attacking efforts. El Kaabi had a notable opportunity in the 58th minute but his attempt narrowly missed. An injury scare occurred in the 67th minute when Neil El Aynaoui sustained a cut but was able to continue after receiving medical attention.

As the match neared its conclusion, Morocco was awarded a penalty in stoppage time. However, Brahim Diaz’s attempt at a Panenka was unsuccessful. The match proceeded to extra time, where Senegal finally secured victory through Alassane Guye’s powerful left-footed shot, breaking the deadlock and clinching the title for Senegal.