In one of the most dramatic and talked-about finals in Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) history, Morocco forward Brahim Díaz endured heartbreak after missing a decisive penalty in the 2025 AFCON final against Senegal at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. The Real Madrid star’s late Panenka attempt was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, a moment that overshadowed an intense and controversial match and helped Senegal secure a 1-0 extra-time victory to lift the continental crown.
A final marked by tension and controversy
The final remained goalless deep into stoppage time of regulation as both teams battled with intensity. A VAR review awarded Morocco a late penalty after Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf was adjudged to have fouled Díaz inside the box. In response, Senegal’s players briefly walked off the pitch in protest, creating one of the most chaotic scenes in the tournament’s history before the game resumed.
The missed chance that defined the night
With the score still level in the 114th minute, Díaz stepped up to take the penalty in front of a vocal home crowd. Opting for a Panenka chip down the centre, his effort lacked pace and placement, and Mendy easily caught the ball, preserving Senegal’s advantage and dashing Morocco’s hopes of late glory. The decision to use a Panenka in such a pivotal moment drew immediate reaction from commentators and fans alike, with many describing the attempt as ill-timed in the context of a major final.
Senegal clinch the title
In the extra time afterwards, Senegal took the lead through a strike from Pape Gueye in extra time. That goal proved to be the match-winner as Senegal held on for a 1-0 victory, claiming their second AFCON title in three editions.
Reactions and fallout
The missed penalty left Díaz visibly distraught and sparked widespread debate across social media and sports platforms. Morocco’s coach described how the lengthy delay before the kick may have affected Díaz’s focus, while former players and pundits called the choice of technique a miscalculation in a defining moment. Supporters and critics alike weighed in, making the incident one of the most replayed and analyzed highlights of the tournament.
Despite the disappointing finish to the final, Díaz’s overall performances throughout the tournament, including opening goals and consistent attacking threat, had helped propel Morocco to the title match. Still, his late miss will be remembered as one of the most dramatic moments in AFCON history.
