Pre-Match Atmosphere: Tension, Passion, and Expectation
The build-up to the final was massive. Morocco, having never won the AFCON despite reaching the final three times before (1976, 1980, 2004), were desperate to lift the trophy on home soil. The Atlas Lions, managed by Walid Regragui, had been dominant throughout the tournament — conceding only two goals in seven matches and showing tactical maturity. Their squad featured world-class talents: Achraf Hakimi, Hakim Ziyech, Sofyan Amrabat, Youssef En-Nesyri, and Romain Saïss.
Senegal, the defending champions, arrived as underdogs but with immense pride. Aliou Cissé’s team had overcome tough group opponents and dramatic knockout wins. They were led by Sadio Mané, Kalidou Koulibaly, Édouard Mendy, and Ismaïla Sarr. Senegal had the experience of winning the title in 2021 and reaching the final in 2019. The contrast in styles was clear: Morocco’s possession-based, high-pressing game vs Senegal’s disciplined counter-attacks and physicality.
The atmosphere in Casablanca was electric. Moroccan fans filled the stadium with red flags, drums, and fireworks. Senegalese supporters created a sea of green and yellow in one corner. Security was tight due to the rivalry’s intensity. The pre-match tension was palpable — national anthems were sung with passion, and the stadium shook when “You’ll Never Walk Alone” was played (a nod to Liverpool fans supporting both teams).
First Half: Morocco Dominate, Senegal Defend Heroically
Morocco started strongly. In the 6th minute, Ziyech’s free-kick was headed just wide by Nayef Aguerd. Senegal defended deep, with Koulibaly and Abdou Diallo forming a solid wall. Mané was isolated up front, but Senegal’s counter-attacks were dangerous.
The first big chance came in the 19th minute — Hakimi’s cross found En-Nesyri, whose header was brilliantly saved by Mendy. Morocco continued to press, with Amrabat and Ounahi controlling the midfield. Senegal’s best moment came in the 32nd minute when Mané broke free but shot straight at Bono.
The half was physical — yellow cards were shown to Koulibaly (for a foul on Ziyech) and Amrabat (for a late challenge). Morocco had 64% possession, 9 shots (4 on target), while Senegal had 3 shots (1 on target). The game ended 0-0 at half-time. Morocco dominated but couldn’t break through Senegal’s defense. The tension was building.
Second Half: The Breakthrough and the Penalty Controversy
The second half started with more Morocco pressure. In the 49th minute, Ziyech’s corner was met by Aguerd, whose header hit the post. Senegal countered in the 55th minute — Mané’s cross found Sarr, whose shot was blocked by Saïss.
The breakthrough came in the 67th minute. Hakimi received the ball on the right, cut inside past two defenders, and curled a beautiful shot into the top corner. Morocco led 1-0. The stadium erupted — fireworks went off, and the crowd chanted Hakimi’s name. Senegal pushed forward, but Morocco defended well.
Then came the controversy. In the 79th minute, Senegal were awarded a penalty after a VAR review — Koulibaly was fouled by Saïss in the box. Replays showed minimal contact, but the referee pointed to the spot. Mané stepped up, but Bono guessed correctly and saved the penalty low to his left. The save was incredible, and the crowd went wild. Senegal’s players surrounded the referee, claiming the foul was outside the box. VAR confirmed the decision, but the moment divided opinion — many felt it was soft.
Late Drama: Senegal Equalize, Morocco Respond Immediately
Senegal equalized in the 88th minute. A long ball from Koulibaly found Mané, who held off two defenders and fired past Bono. The score was 1-1, and the momentum shifted. Extra time loomed, and Senegal looked the stronger side.
But Morocco had one more moment of magic. In the 92nd minute, Ziyech’s corner was met by Aguerd, who headed the winner past Mendy. Morocco led 2-1. The stadium exploded again. Senegal pushed for an equalizer, but time ran out. The final whistle blew, and Morocco were champions.
Post-Match: Celebrations, Controversy, and Reactions
Morocco lifted the trophy on home soil for the first time in history. The celebrations were wild — fireworks, street parties across the country, and tears of joy from the players. Walid Regragui was named Coach of the Tournament, Ziyech Player of the Tournament, and Bono Goalkeeper of the Tournament. Morocco’s win was a historic moment for the nation and African football.
Senegal were devastated. Mané missed the penalty, and the team felt hard done by the VAR decisions. Aliou Cissé criticized the refereeing, saying “the decisions changed the game.” The penalty incident and the timing of Morocco’s winner were debated for weeks. Some called it a “home advantage,” while others praised Morocco’s resilience and Bono’s heroics.
The Lessons from the Final
1. Home Advantage Is Powerful — Morocco’s passionate crowd and familiar conditions were key. The final showed how important it is for a host nation to have the support of its people.
2. Penalties Can Define Careers — Mané’s missed penalty was a turning point. It reminded everyone that big moments can define careers, and even the best players can miss.
3. Resilience Wins Games — Senegal equalized late, but Morocco responded immediately. Mental strength and belief are crucial in finals.
4. VAR Is Still Controversial — The penalty decision and its timing sparked debate. VAR is necessary but needs consistency, transparency, and faster reviews.
5. African Football Is at Its Peak — The final showcased the talent, passion, and competitiveness of African football. Morocco’s win proved the continent can compete with the best.
6. Goalkeeping Heroics Matter — Bono’s penalty save was the difference. Goalkeepers can win finals, and his performance was legendary.
7. Tactical Discipline Wins Titles — Morocco’s defensive solidity and counter-attacking threat were key. They showed that organization and belief can overcome any opponent.
The 2025 AFCON final between Senegal and Morocco was a classic — drama, controversy, brilliance, and history. It will be remembered as one of the greatest finals in AFCON history and a moment that defined African football for years to come. The tournament was a celebration of the continent’s talent, passion, and unity.
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