Agony Of Defeat! Senegal Beat Morocco 1-0 To Become AFCON Champion
By Bukolami Oriola
It’s a goaaaal! The Teranga Lions of Senegal emerged as worthy African Cup of Nations champions after a hard-fought 1–0 win over Morocco.
The tension soaked match dragged into extra time before the decisive goal.
Pape Gueye’s 94th minutes goal sealed the Atlas Lions of Morocco’s fate , which fought bravely and came close to win before the extra time when a penalty kick awarded was handed to the Senegalese goal tender by Moroccan Ibrahim Diaz as if he was bewitched.
The Atlas Lions fought bravely on home soil, matching Senegal for most of the game, but one decisive goal in extra time sealed their fate.
Moroccan players felt the heartbreak deeply, but Senegal’s skill, focus, and determination earned them the trophy.
Morocco almost came close, but Senegal was truly deserving to lift the title, proving why they are one of Africa’s top teams.
A mild drama however ensued when the Senegalese Coach told his boys to leave the pitch because of the controversial penalty before team captain and talisman, Sadio Mane urged his teammates to return to the field before the resultant kick was cuddled effortlessly by the goal keeper.
Mane, however, won the Man of Match for his yeoman’s job and inspiring his team to win the coveted trophy.
