Pape Gueye fired Senegal to AFCON glory as the Lions of Teranga beat favourites and hosts Morocco 1-0 in Rabat last night, in a memorable, chaotic final.
The atmosphere was not just electric but tense as Senegal came out strongly against Morocco. Had it not been for Morocco’s talismanic goalkeeper Bono, Senegal would have buried the contest in 90 minutes, but Bono denied the Lions.
Morocco then gained composure and had several chances, but Mendy came in the way, and so did some luck too. It was just not going Morocco’s way, probably destiny had something else in store.
In a move which did not go down well with the Senegalese, the players staged a walkout, and only relented after a good 25 minutes. This was unprecedented and chaotic. Morocco were awarded a penalty after a VAR inquiry confirmed an infringement on Brahim Diaz, triggering the protest.
The top scorer of the AFCON, Diaz, took the most feeble penalty, which was saved with ease by Mendy. It was a pathetic try from a fine player. Nerves had got to him as the world looked on. Morocco had let slip the Cup decisively.
The match went into extra time, and then Pape Gueye produced an incredible strike from just outside the box to beat Bono. The ball flew from Gueye’s foot, climbed and moved away from Bono’s outstretched left hand, to enter the net. For me, it was the goal of the tournament. It was a staggering piece of play from Senegal. They had taken the lead.
Morocco tried everything in the minutes left but just failed to score. Senegal hung on gamely and won the Africa Cup of Nations, showing tremendous grit and determination. The Lions of Teranga fell on their knees as they cried and thanked the Almighty amongst lots of joy and hugs.
Sadio Mane was declared the player of the tournament. Bono got the Golden Globes while a distraught Brahim Diaz got the Golden Boot award.
AFCON has come to an end, but memories will linger.
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