Millions Senegal Walked Away With After AFCON 2025 Triumph Over Morocco

Senegal's dramatic AFCON 2025 victory over Morocco delivered not only continental glory but also a record financial reward for the reigning champions.

The Lions of Teranga have once again ascended to the summit of African football, but their victory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco brought more than just a trophy.

Following a tense and high-stakes final in Rabat, Senegal walked away with a record-breaking financial windfall, marking a historic moment for the nation’s sporting economy.

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AFCON 2025: Senegal Pocket A Historic Payout

Senegal’s 1-0 victory over the host nation, Morocco, secured them a staggering $10 million cash prize. This figure represents a 43% increase from the previous edition's $7 million prize, following a deliberate push by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to boost the commercial value of the tournament.

When factoring in the cumulative bonuses from the group stages and knockout rounds, reports suggest the Senegalese Football Federation could see total earnings reach approximately $11.6 million.

This payout is the largest in the history of the competition, providing a significant boost for infrastructure and youth development in Senegalese football.

AFCON 2025 Final: Senegal vs Morocco - The Penalty Protest

Despite the celebratory ending, the match was nearly derailed by one of the most controversial moments in modern football history.

In the dying minutes of normal time, with the score locked at 0-0, the referee awarded a penalty to Morocco following a VAR review for an alleged foul by El Hadji Malick Diouf on Brahim Diaz.

The decision sparked immediate outrage from the Senegalese bench. In an unprecedented move, head coach Pape Thiaw signaled for his players to leave the pitch in protest.

The game was halted for nearly 10 minutes as half the team retreated toward the tunnel. It took the calm leadership of captain Sadio Mané to convince his teammates to return and finish the match.

The drama reached a fever pitch when Morocco’s Brahim Diaz stepped up to take the resulting penalty. His attempt at a "Panenka" chip was easily caught by Edouard Mendy, sending the game into extra time.

Senegal seized the momentum in the additional period. In the 105th minute, Pape Gueye unleashed a clinical strike that silenced the home crowd and secured Senegal’s second AFCON title.

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