The curtain has come down on AFCON 2025 following a dramatic and controversial final in Rabat, with Senegal crowned champions after extra-time heartbreak for hosts Morocco. Beyond the chaos and emotion of the final, the tournament also produced a clear set of individual standouts, with Senegal and Morocco dominating the awards ceremony.
The moment Senegal became champions of Africa again ?? pic.twitter.com/8S8T0QP3yO
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Despite finishing third and ending the competition as one of the tournament’s most entertaining sides, Nigeria’s Super Eagles were left without a single individual prize, a talking point that has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike.
Here’s a full breakdown of the AFCON 2025 award winners.
Champions: Senegal
Senegal lifted their second Africa Cup of Nations title after a tense 1–0 extra-time victory over Morocco in the final. Pape Gueye’s stunning strike settled a match overshadowed by VAR drama, walk-offs and a missed stoppage-time penalty, as the Teranga Lions once again proved their ability to manage the biggest moments.
Runners-up: Morocco
Tournament hosts Morocco fell just short of ending their 50-year wait for continental glory. Defensively disciplined throughout the competition and backed by home support in Rabat, the Atlas Lions produced a strong campaign that ultimately ended in heartbreak.
Third Place: Nigeria
Nigeria completed the podium after an impressive tournament run, finishing as one of the competition’s most dangerous attacking sides. While silverware and awards proved elusive, the Super Eagles leave AFCON 2025 with renewed belief and momentum.
Player of the Tournament: Sadio Mané (Senegal)
Sadio Mané was named AFCON 2025 Player of the Tournament after another commanding international campaign. The Senegal captain led by example, delivering key moments, leadership and composure as his side navigated a difficult route to the title.
Sadio Mané was the man who called the Senegal players back onto the pitch ? pic.twitter.com/PxC7X15ttT
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Best Goalkeeper: Yassine Bounou (Morocco)
Morocco’s Yassine Bounou claimed the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award after a series of outstanding performances. From crucial saves in knockout games to his calm presence in the final, Bono was central to Morocco’s run to the showpiece.
Golden Boot (Top Scorer): Brahim Díaz (Morocco)
Despite the disappointment of the final, Brahim Díaz enjoyed a historic AFCON, finishing as top scorer with five goals. The Real Madrid forward became the first player to score in five consecutive matches at a single AFCON tournament.
Fair Play Award: Morocco
Morocco were also recognised with the Fair Play Award, reflecting their discipline and conduct across the tournament.
Nigeria’s notable absence
One of the major talking points from the awards was Nigeria’s absence from the individual honours list. Despite finishing third, being the tournament’s top scorers and producing several standout performances, the Super Eagles were overlooked when it came to personal accolades, adding extra fuel to the post-tournament debate.
As AFCON 2025 fades into memory, the focus now shifts to what comes next for Africa’s top sides, with Senegal setting the standard once again and Nigeria looking to turn promise into silverware at the next continental challenge.
