Senegal shocked host nation Morocco to claim the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations title after a dramatic 1–0 victory in the final played in Rabat. In front of a passionate home crowd, the Lions of Téranga showed resilience and composure, striking late to snatch the trophy from the Atlas Lions on their own soil.
The final was fiercely contested and not without controversy. Senegal had an earlier goal disallowed, a decision that sparked frustration among the players. Tensions rose further when the referee awarded Morocco a penalty, leading to a brief on-field protest by the Senegalese team and a temporary halt in play as officials stepped in to restore order.
Morocco failed to take advantage of the penalty miss, keeping the game level and setting the stage for a dramatic finish. With extra time nearing its end, Senegal found the decisive goal to seal a famous victory, crowning a memorable AFCON campaign and leaving the hosts heartbroken in Rabat.
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