AUC Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf hails Senegal over AFCON victory
By Mustafa Juma, January 19, 2026African Union Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has congratulated Senegal for winning the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In a statement shared by the African Union (AU) via social media on Monday, January 19, 2026, Youssouf described the final pitting Senegal against the hosts Morocco as a fitting and memorable conclusion to the tournament.
He noted that the contest had reflected the highest standards of African football, competitiveness, and continental pride.
“AFCON has once again demonstrated that the beautiful game is a powerful force for unity, bringing Africans together across cultures, borders, and generations,” Youssouf stated.
Youssouf commends participating nations
He also commended all participating nations for elevating the standard of African football and for showcasing the continent’s immense talent, resilience, and leadership in sport.
“The successful hosting of AFCON once again reflects Africa’s growing capacity to stage world-class sporting events that unite the continent and inspire global admiration,” he added.
2025 AFCON final chaos
A wild turn of events erupted at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Morocco on the night of Sunday, January 18, 2026, during the AFCON final after the centre referee awarded a controversial penalty to the host country, Morocco, following a foul on Brahim Diaz.
The referee had awarded a very soft foul for contact between Abdoulaye Seck and Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi.
With eight minutes having originally been added on, Ndala was advised by VAR to check a tug by West Ham defender El Hadji Malick Diouf on Diaz from a corner, with the Congolese deciding to award the spot kick.
The penalty call led to uproar from the Senegalese team, who threatened to leave the pitch but were later called back by their captain, Sadio Mane, and parity was restored.
However, Brahim Diaz, in an unlikely fashion, missed the penalty, which could have seen his side win the 2025 AFCON, and the match headed to extra time.
Pape Gueye’s extra-time goal was enough to seal a second AFCON title for Senegal.