Morocco's AFCON Dream Shattered: Panenka Penalty Miss Seals Senegal's 1-0 Victory

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In a dramatic and chaotic 2025 AFCON final, Morocco's hopes of lifting the trophy were dashed when Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Diaz's Panenka-style penalty was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The match was marked by controversy, with the Senegal players initially protesting a late penalty award against them, before eventually returning to the field to face a crucial spot-kick. The penalty was awarded in the second-half stoppage time after a VAR check, following a challenge on Diaz by Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf. However, the Senegal players were furious with the decision and walked off the field in protest, forcing a lengthy delay. Once the match resumed, Diaz stepped up to take the penalty, but his Panenka attempt was easily saved by Mendy. The Real Madrid midfielder was visibly shaken by the miss and was substituted early in extra time. He was seen having a heated discussion with head coach Walid Regragui, and was in tears. Despite the controversy, Senegal's goalkeeper Edouard Mendy praised the spirit of his team, saying, "We did it together and we came back together, that's all that matters. We can be proud tonight." The match ultimately ended in a 1-0 victory for Senegal, with Papa Gueye scoring the decisive goal in extra time.