Senegal emerged champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday night after edging host nation Morocco 1–0 in a tense and dramatic final played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The final was decided in extra time, with midfielder Pape Gueye scoring the winning goal in the 94th minute after both sides failed to break the deadlock during regulation time. The hard-fought contest kept fans on edge until the very end.
Drama unfolded late in the game when Morocco were awarded a penalty following a VAR review. However, Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy produced a crucial save to deny Brahim Diaz, preserving his team’s advantage.
Despite sustained pressure from the hosts in the closing moments, Senegal stood firm to seal a memorable victory and bring the tournament to a thrilling conclusion.
Following the final, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) officially released the list of team and individual award winners from the competition.
AFCON 2025 – Full Winners List
Champions: Senegal
Runners-up: Morocco
Third Place: Nigeria
Individual and Special Awards
Fair Play Award: Morocco
Despite losing the final on home soil, Morocco were recognised for their discipline and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
Player of the Tournament: Sadio Mané (Senegal)
Mané played a pivotal role in Senegal’s title run, scoring two goals and providing leadership and experience at crucial moments.
Best Goalkeeper: Yassine Bounou (Morocco)
Bounou impressed with a series of outstanding performances, earning him the award despite his team’s narrow final defeat.
Top Scorer: Brahim Diaz (Morocco)
Diaz finished as the competition’s highest goal scorer with five goals from seven matches.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations delivered a blend of high drama, fine margins and standout individual displays, ending with Senegal once again asserting their dominance on the continental stage in Rabat.
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