Unforgettable AFCON Final: Senegal's Path to Glory Amidst Controversy
A Contentious Conclusion to Regular Play
The championship match reached a boiling point in its final moments. After an extensive review by VAR, a penalty was awarded to Morocco due to a foul committed by Malick Diouf on Brahim Diaz during stoppage time. This decision provoked a strong reaction from the Senegalese squad, who, under the directive of their manager Pape Thiaw, temporarily exited the field in protest.
Disallowed Goal and Dramatic Return
Just prior to the controversial penalty call, Senegal believed they had scored a winning goal when Ismaila Sarr found the net. However, this goal was disallowed due to a questionable foul on Achraf Hakimi by Abdoulaye Seck, adding another layer of controversy to the match. Following a delay of approximately 15 minutes, the Senegalese players eventually returned from their dressing room to resume play.
Penalty Miss and Extra-Time Decider
Upon the resumption of the game, Brahim Diaz stepped up to take the crucial penalty kick for Morocco. However, his attempted 'dink' down the middle was comfortably saved by Senegal's goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy, keeping the score level. The match then progressed into extra time, where Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye emerged as the hero, scoring a stunning goal that secured Senegal their second-ever Africa Cup of Nations title.