Controversial Penalty Award To Morocco Disrupts AFCON Final As Senegal Stage Walkout

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Senegal and Morocco descended into chaos on Sunday night as a controversial penalty decision in favour of the latter sparked fierce debate among players and fans alike.

With the match tied at 0-0 in the dying moments, referee Victor Gomes awarded a penalty to Morocco following a VAR review, igniting uproar from the Senegalese side.

The incident occurred in the 90+7 minute when Brahim Díaz was allegedly fouled in the penalty area by Senegal’s El Hadji Malick Diouf. As the whistle blew for the spot-kick, players from Senegal were visibly incensed, surrounding the referee in protest. What was meant to be a thrilling climax to an evenly contested match took a dramatic turn, as fans erupted in frustration at the decision.

Senegal’s coach, Aliou Cissé, expressed his dismay, stating, “It’s incredibly disappointing to see a match of this magnitude decided by such a contentious call. We fought hard, and I believe we deserved better.”

Morocco’s players, meanwhile, celebrated the opportunity to take the lead, with Achraf Hakimi stepping up to take the penalty. The tension was palpable as the Moroccan star prepared to shoot, and Yassine Bounou, their goalkeeper, was seen rallying his teammates for what could be a decisive moment.

The penalty was ultimately saved by Senegal’s Édouard Mendy, keeping the match at 0-0 and sending the game into extra time amidst a mixed chorus of cheers and boos from the crowd.

As the two teams regrouped for the additional 30 minutes, the atmosphere remained charged, with both sides seeking to seize the initiative. The first half of extra time saw several near misses from both teams, but neither could find the back of the net.

The match concluded with the score still tied, leading to a penalties shootout that would determine the champion. The controversy surrounding the penalty decision is likely to dominate discussions in the days to come, overshadowing what has been an enthralling tournament filled with memorable moments.

As the dust settles on this dramatic final, both teams will reflect on their AFCON journey, but the focus will inevitably turn to the fallout from this contentious decision that has stirred emotions across the continent.