Senegal clinched the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title on Sunday night, narrowly defeating hosts Morocco 1–0 in a gripping final at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The decisive goal came in the 94th minute when Pape Gueye struck during extra time, securing continental glory for the Teranga Lions after a goalless 90 minutes.
The match was full of drama, including a controversial late penalty awarded to Morocco after a VAR review. Brahim Diaz took the kick, but Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy produced a stunning save, keeping their title hopes alive before Gueye’s historic finish.
Despite Morocco’s intense pressure in the final minutes, Aliou Cissé’s side held on to claim their second AFCON crown, following their first triumph in 2021.
The 35th edition of the tournament also highlighted several individual achievements. Here is the full list of AFCON 2025 award winners:
Champions: Senegal
Third Place: Nigeria
Fair Play Award: Morocco
Morocco, despite their heartbreak in the final, were recognised for their sportsmanship and discipline throughout the tournament.
Player of the Tournament: Sadio Mané (Senegal)
Senegal captain Sadio Mané was named the Best Player of the Tournament, following his outstanding leadership and consistent displays that powered Senegal to glory. The Al Nassr forward scored twice and provided key assists during the campaign.
Best Goalkeeper: Yassine Bounou (Morocco)
Morocco’s safe pair of hands, Yassine Bounou, earned the Best Goalkeeper Award for his exceptional performances, including crucial saves that carried the Atlas Lions to the final.
Top Scorer: Brahim Diaz (Morocco)
Spanish-born forward Brahim Diaz finished as top Scorer of the continental soccer showpiece.
Scorer with five goals in seven matches, emerging as one of the tournament’s brightest stars despite his missed penalty in the final.
The 2025 AFCON will be remembered for its intense battles, moments of brilliance, and emotional highs and lows. From Mendy’s penalty heroics to Gueye’s extra-time winner, Africa’s biggest football festival ended in unforgettable fashion with Senegal once again standing tall on the continent.