Senegal emerged champions after a dramatic match, but tension boiled over in stoppage time.
Trouble began when Senegal felt they were denied a legitimate goal, a decision that was not reviewed by VAR.
Moments later, Morocco were awarded a penalty, prompting Senegal players to temporarily walk off in protest before returning following Sadio Mane’s intervention.
Brahim Diaz ultimately missed the spot-kick after attempting a daring chip over goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.
Adding to the drama, Senegal’s reserve goalkeeper, Yehvann Diouf, found himself in a bizarre confrontation with ball boys and flag bearers.
The controversy centered on Mendy’s towel, which Diouf had been using to keep the goalkeeper dry and maintain his grip in the rainy conditions.
Videos circulating online show Diouf defending the towel fiercely as some Moroccan players, including captain Achraf Hakimi, tried to seize or discard it.
The scenes drew astonishment from fans, with one commenting: “Others are fighting for the trophy. Morocco is busy fighting for a towel.”
Despite the chaos, Senegal held their nerve, with Pape Gueye scoring in extra time to secure the historic victory.
However, the match will also be remembered for the unusual off-pitch drama, which overshadowed parts of the game and left fans questioning the conduct of players and officials alike.
Senegal’s victory adds another AFCON title to their cabinet, but the final will go down in history as one of the most tumultuous in the tournament’s history.
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