Six Premier League stars celebrate AFCON success with Senegal

Senegal have been crowned winners of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations following a drama-packed final win over Morocco.

The Lions of Teranga beat the host nation in extra time after a decided full of incident at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

A tense final exploded into life in second-half stoppage time. First, Crystal Palace winger Ismaila Sarr had what he felt was a late winner disallowed by VAR, with Senegal teammate Abdoulaye Seck harshly adjudged to have fouled Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi in the build-up.

Moments later, Morocco were awarded a contentious penalty at the other end. West Ham left-back El Hadji Malick Diouf was penalised for tussling with Brahim Diaz, with VAR urging referee Jean-Jacques Ndala Ngambo urged to consult the screen. Penalty awarded.

What followed was a shocking scene, as Senegal – urged by head coach Pape Thiaw – left the pitch in protest. Several players headed down the tunnel in protest against perceived home bias, before captain Sadio Mane persuaded them back to the pitch.

After a stunning 24-minute delay, Edouard Mendy saved Brahim Diaz’s Panenka effort, as the latter fluffed the chance to end Morocco’s 50-year AFCON drought with the last kick of the game.

In extra time, Senegal took charge. Four minutes into the added period, Pape Gueye blasted home the decisive goal that crowned the West African nations AFCON champions for a second time. It was a third final appearance in four tournaments for Senegal and a second title in three attempts.

Pape Thiaw’s squad was littered with Premier League players past and present. Ex-Liverpool winger Sadio Mane was named Player of the Tournament, as he was during Senegal’s 2021 success, while ex-Chelsea goalkeeper Mendy made the pivotal penalty stop from Diaz.

Everton duo Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gana Gueye both played prominent roles in Senegal’s success, with Sunderland midfielder Habib Diarra, West Ham’s El Hadji Malick Diouf, Crystal Palace wideman Ismailla Sarr and Tottenham’s Pape Matar Sarr all celebrating continental success.

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