As an entire nation held its breath, hoping for a fairytale conclusion to an Africa Cup of Nations impeccably organized by the Kingdom, fate ultimately favored the Lions of Teranga. Pape Gueye scored the only goal of the match at the very start of extra time, in the 94th minute, unleashing a powerful left-footed strike that flew into the top corner and plunged the stadium into heavy silence.
The frustration was all the greater as Morocco had believed they held their destiny in their own hands in the dying moments of regulation time. Brahim Díaz won a penalty in stoppage time following a VAR review, offering the Atlas Lions a golden opportunity to claim the long-awaited title. But the Moroccan international failed to convert, letting a decisive chance slip away.
That refereeing decision sparked visible tension on the pitch, with Senegalese players expressing their anger and briefly leaving the field on the instructions of their head coach, before returning to resume the match and ultimately secure their second African crown.
For Morocco, the disappointment is immense. After a solid campaign, extraordinary popular support and the hope of lifting the trophy at home, the Atlas Lions saw their ambition fall just short of glory. It is a final that will leave deep regrets, but also the image of a fighting team that came agonizingly close to making history.
Pain hangs heavily over Rabat tonight, yet it does not erase the pride inspired by a remarkable journey, nor the unwavering love of the Moroccan people for their national team.
Translated from Abderrazzak Boussaid’s French article – le7tv