Image Credits: Imago Images
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations ended in dramatic fashion on January 18, 2026.
Fans were on the edge of their seats as Senegal faced hosts Morocco in a final that had everything: tension, controversy, and heroics.
For Sadio Mane, it was another milestone in an already stellar career.
The tournament, Africa’s premier international competition, gathers the continent’s best teams every two years.
It has a history of producing unforgettable moments, and this year was no different. Senegal had been strong throughout the competition.
They topped their group with confident performances, and their knockout games were a mix of precision and grit.
But no one expected the final to test players and nerves like it did.
Senegal’s road to glory is rooted in history.
Their first AFCON title came in 2021, played in 2022, when they faced Egypt in Cameroon.
The final ended 0–0 after extra time, and the captain, Sadio Mane scored the winning penalty in the shootout (4–2), securing Senegal’s first-ever star.
Now, by defeating Morocco 1–0 tonight in Rabat, Senegal has successfully added a second star to their jersey.
This victory is especially significant because they defeated the hosts in one of the most hostile and high-pressure environments in tournament history.
The match at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat remained goalless through regular time.
Then, in stoppage time, chaos struck.
In the 90+8th minute, the referee awarded a highly controversial penalty to Morocco for an alleged foul by El Hadji Malick Diouf on Brahim Díaz.
Senegal players, led by coach Pape Thiaw, walked off the pitch in protest.
It took nearly 20 minutes of persuasion from Sadio Mane for the team to return.
When play resumed, Edouard Mendy became the hero.
He stayed calm and caught Brahim Díaz’s attempted “Panenka” penalty.
Just minutes later, in the 94th minute of extra time, Pape Gueye scored the winner.
The fast break was led by Idrissa Gana Gueye, and Pape fired a fierce left-footed strike into the top-right corner. Senegal secured their second star.
Senegal’s road to the final had been impressive.
Group stage victories included a 3–0 opening win over Botswana and a 3–0 triumph against Benin.
In the knockouts, Sadio Mane scored the winner in the semi-final against Egypt, sending Senegal to their third final in four editions.
For Liverpool fans, it was a proud moment to see Mane lift the AFCON trophy once again.
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