Senegal has won the Africa Cup of Nations for a second time. However, their victory over Morocco was overshadowed by a major controversy. The team briefly walked off the pitch in protest of a late penalty decision.
The dramatic incident occurred in the 98th minute with the score 0-0. The referee awarded Morocco a penalty after a VAR review. He judged that Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf had fouled Brahim Diaz in the box.
Senegal’s head coach, Pape Thiaw, reacted furiously. He immediately tried to usher his players off the field in protest. The team initially followed him towards the tunnel.
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Thiaw’s anger was also due to a disallowed goal for Senegal moments earlier. Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr had bundled the ball home. However, the referee ruled it out for a foul by Abdoulaye Seck on Achraf Hakimi.
Senegal’s goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy, even went to the dressing room. Meanwhile, captain Sadio Mane played a crucial calming role. He actively encouraged his teammates to return and finish the match.
The players eventually returned to the pitch. Brahim Diaz stepped up to take the controversial penalty for Morocco. He attempted a Panenka chip, but his effort was saved.
Referee Jean Jacques Ndala blew for full-time immediately after the missed penalty. This sent the final into extra time.
Senegal then seized their momentum. Midfielder Pape Gueye scored just four minutes into extra time. This goal proved decisive, securing Senegal’s second Afcon title.
Despite the victory, the match ended under a cloud. Mane again showed leadership after the final whistle. He walked over to the Senegal fans, urging them to remain calm.
Also read: Senegal win Africa Cup of Nations after walking off pitch amid penalty chaos
Reports indicated a tense atmosphere, with a line of armoured police positioned in front of the supporters’ section following several volatile moments.
