By Michael Odegbe
The biggest night of African football ended in controversy, chaos, and despair as the Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal descended into chaos, prompting CAF to promise to take “appropriate action” against those found responsible.
Violent scenes erupted on Sunday at the end of regulation time, with the score tied 0-0, and referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded a penalty to hosts Morocco in the middle of stoppage time. The decision sparked outrage among the Senegalese players, most of whom walked off the pitch in protest.
As tensions on the pitch reached a peak, chaos erupted in the stands. A group of Senegalese fans clashed with Moroccan security at the opposite end of the stadium in Rabat, turning the all-important final into a moment of shame for African football.
Although CAF did not blame any team, it did not hide its outrage.
“Africaine de Football condemns the unacceptable behavior of some players and officials during the final of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025,” a CAF statement read.
“CAF strongly condemns all inappropriate behavior, especially that directed against referees or officials. All footage is being analyzed, and the matter will be forwarded to the appropriate authorities for appropriate action.”
Order was eventually restored, largely thanks to Sadio Mané, who remained on the pitch and rarely returned to his teammates. Moments later, the drama took a different turn.
Moroccan Brahim Díaz, who had won a penalty, stepped up to the ball, but his shot was saved by Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, sparking a burst of celebration from the Senegalese bench.
This intervention proved decisive.
Senegal pulled off a comeback in extra time as Pape Gueye scored a stunning goal to secure a 1-0 victory and secure the title of Africa Cup of Nations champions for the Teranga Lions in one of the most dramatic and controversial finals in the tournament’s history.
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