Pape Gueye emerged as the defining figure as Senegal overcame hosts Morocco to claim the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, sealing victory in a tense final that hinged on fine margins and moments of composure.
The midfielder’s decisive contribution proved enough to separate two evenly matched sides in a contest shaped by discipline, tactical caution and intense pressure.
With both teams wary of conceding on the biggest stage, chances were limited and every duel fiercely contested, turning the final into a test of patience as much as quality.
Morocco, buoyed by strong home support, began with authority and sought to impose themselves through controlled possession and measured build-up play.
Senegal, however, remained compact and organised, denying space between the lines and forcing the hosts into wide areas.
The opening exchanges reflected the weight of the occasion, with neither side willing to take unnecessary risks.
As the match settled, Senegal gradually found rhythm through their midfield, where Gueye’s influence began to grow.
Calm on the ball and disciplined off it, he dictated the tempo during Senegal’s best spells and repeatedly disrupted Morocco’s attempts to accelerate the game.
His reading of play and ability to arrive at the right moment ultimately shifted the balance.
The breakthrough arrived at a critical point, rewarding Senegal’s persistence and precision.
Gueye, timing his involvement perfectly, capitalised on a rare lapse and delivered the decisive moment that silenced the home crowd.
It was a contribution that underlined his importance throughout the tournament and his ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
Morocco responded with urgency, pushing forward in search of a way back into the contest.
Their efforts, however, were met by a resilient Senegalese defence that remained composed under pressure.
Clear openings were scarce, and frustration grew as time ticked away without a breakthrough for the hosts.
Senegal’s game management in the latter stages reflected the experience within their squad.
Rather than retreating entirely, they continued to press selectively, disrupting Morocco’s rhythm and preventing sustained momentum.
The final minutes were played amid rising tension, with every clearance and interception greeted with roars from the Senegal bench.
When the final whistle sounded, it confirmed Senegal as champions once again, capping a campaign defined by solidity, belief and decisive contributions in key moments.
For Gueye, the night marked the pinnacle of an impressive tournament, his match-winning impact securing his place in the final’s narrative.
For Morocco, the defeat was a bitter end to a campaign that promised much, particularly on home soil.
Despite strong performances along the way, they were unable to find a response to Senegal’s organisation and efficiency when it mattered most.
Senegal’s triumph reinforces their status among the continent’s elite, with the final serving as a reminder that major tournaments are often decided by composure and clarity in decisive moments.
In Rabat, Pape Gueye delivered exactly that, guiding his side to African football’s ultimate prize.
