Morocco and Senegal face off in highly anticipated AFCON 2025 final

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Morocco’s Africa Cup of Nations Final Ends in Controversy

The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal ended with a 1-0 win for Senegal, but the match was marred by on-field controversy and off-field incidents. The game was locked at 0-0 until added time, when Senegal’s Ismaila Sarr appeared to have scored, only for the goal to be disallowed due to a foul on Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi.

The decision sparked tension between Senegal coach Pape Thiaw and referee Jean-Jacques Ndala. In the final minute of added time, Morocco’s Brahim Diaz was awarded a penalty after a video assistant referee review, which led to further conflict between coaches and players. The match was delayed for over 17 minutes as objects were thrown from the crowd and some fans staged a pitch invasion.

The controversy continued when Senegal’s goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved a “Panenka” chip attempt by Diaz, and Senegal’s Pape Gueye scored a winning goal in extra time. The match ended with Senegal being crowned champions of Africa for the second time.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino condemned the “ugly scenes” at the final, stating that “violence cannot be tolerated in our sport.” The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is likely to take disciplinary measures against Morocco coach Walid Regragui and Senegal coach Pape Thiaw. The Senegalese Football Federation had previously raised concerns over security and officiating at the tournament.

The final’s outcome was disputed by some, with Infantino calling for respect for match officials’ decisions. However, the incident has sparked a wider debate about the state of African football and the need for improved security measures at major tournaments.

Source: Al Jazeera