Morocco’s aspirations of ending their near five-decade AFCON title drought were crushed in a dramatic final against Senegal on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
Despite playing on home soil with fervent support, the Atlas Lions fell 1-0 to the reigning champions in extra time, extending a title wait that stretches back to 1976.
The highly anticipated match at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium ended 0-0 after 90 minutes, marked by immense tension and a controversial penalty incident in stoppage time.
Morocco was awarded a penalty after a lengthy VAR review, but Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy saved Brahim Díaz’s “Panenka” attempt, a moment that proved pivotal in denying Morocco a late winner.
The deadlock was finally broken just three minutes into extra time when Senegal’s Pape Gueye unleashed a fierce left-footed strike into the top corner. Morocco pushed desperately for an equalizer, even hitting the crossbar with a header from Nayef Aguerd, but Senegal’s defense held firm to secure their second consecutive title.
For Morocco, who have enjoyed top ranking on the continent since their historic run to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals, the defeat is a bitter disappointment.
Their only AFCON triumph remains the 1976 tournament, which was decided by a round-robin format rather than a single final match.
This loss in their second traditional final appearance since 2004 means the Atlas Lions’ wait for continental glory will continue for at least another two years.
