Veteran French coach Claude Le Roy has shared thoughtful views on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco, praising both sides while highlighting what still separates the champions from their rivals.
He admired Walid Regragui’s work with Morocco, pointing to strong tactical displays against Cameroon, Nigeria and Zambia, but felt fatigue from the marathon semi-final took a toll in the Rabat decider.
Le Roy revealed that Senegal’s physical power made the difference late on and lifted the trophy with a 94th-minute winner from Pape Gueye. He also recounted a decisive moment when protesting Senegal players left the pitch after a Moroccan penalty decision, before Sadio Mane asked his advice and was told: “I would continue playing because the match is not over yet.”
The former Africa specialist praised Nayel Aynaoui as one of the tournament’s standout players, alongside Mane, but believes Morocco still lack a decisive centre forward.
Le Roy added that he was not surprised by the physical dip of stars like Riyad Mahrez and Mohamed Salah, while stressing that Mane amazed him by maintaining an exceptional level despite moving to the Saudi league.
