The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final was on the brink of collapse before a timely intervention by veteran French coach Claude Le Roy helped steady a volatile situation and ensured Africa’s showpiece match reached its conclusion.
The decisive moment came deep into stoppage time of the final between Morocco and Senegal, when the referee awarded a penalty to the hosts and disallowed a Senegal goal for a marginal infringement.
The decision triggered furious protests from the Senegalese bench, with head coach Pape Thiaw instructing his players to leave the pitch in protest. Several players complied, creating scenes of confusion and tension inside the stadium as the final appeared close to being abandoned.
As the standoff unfolded, Senegal captain Sadio Mané remained on the pitch, weighing his options amid the lack of consensus within his team.
It was at this point that Mané turned to Le Roy, who was present at the stadium in his role as a television analyst. The former Senegal coach, widely respected across the continent, played a pivotal role in defusing the crisis.
“When Mané was left alone on the pitch, he came and asked me, ‘What would you do if you were in my position?’” Le Roy stated in press remarks.
“I replied: ‘I would continue playing, because the outcome is never decided!’ Then Sadio brought his teammates back onto the pitch,” the French coach added.
Mané also consulted former Senegal internationals Mamadou Niang and El Hadji Diouf, whose advice aligned with Le Roy’s message and reinforced the decision to resume play.
Acting decisively, the captain convinced his teammates to return, restoring order and allowing the match to continue.
The drama did not end there. Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy saved Brahim Díaz’s penalty, a turning point that swung momentum back in Senegal’s favour.
In extra time, Pape Gueye struck in the 94th minute to secure a 1–0 victory and deliver Senegal’s second Africa Cup of Nations title.
After the final whistle, Mané underlined that walking away was never an option, stressing the importance of protecting the image of African football.
In a night defined by controversy, Claude Le Roy’s calm counsel proved instrumental in preserving the integrity of AFCON 2025 and ensuring the final was decided on the pitch.
