AFCON 2025 Final: Chaos and Controversy in Senegal's Victory over Morocco

africa - The AFCON 2025 final between Senegal and Morocco ends in chaos with fan clashes, VAR controversies, missed penalties, and a walkout, as Senegal claims the title with an extra-time winner.

AFCON 2025 Final: Chaos and Controversy

The AFCON 2025 final between Senegal and Morocco descended into chaos and controversy as Senegal claimed victory with an extra-time thunderous winner by Pape Gueye, amidst fan clashes, VAR disputes, missed penalties, and a walkout.

Senegal's Victory

Senegal secured their second AFCON title in three tournaments with Pape Gueye's goal in extra time, while Morocco missed a last-minute penalty that could have sealed the win in regular time.

VAR Controversies

The final was marred by two controversial penalty decisions that almost led to the first abandonment of a major international final. Referee Jean-Jacques Ndala's decisions and the failure to consult VAR sparked heated debates and physical altercations on and off the pitch.

Thiaw's Controversial Decision

Senegal's coach, Pape Thiaw, made a controversial move by briefly walking his players off the pitch in protest against the referee's decisions. The match's fate hung in the balance as tensions escalated before the players eventually returned to complete the final.

Diaz's Missed Penalty

Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz's missed penalty in stoppage time added to the drama, with speculations about whether he intentionally failed the spot-kick. The chaotic final highlighted broader issues of fair play, sportsmanship, and the use of VAR in African football.

Tournament's Identity Crisis

The AFCON 2025 final underscored the tournament's identity crisis and reputational challenges. The night of chaos and controversy raises questions about the future of the competition and its global perception.