Africa-Press – Gambia. The leader of The Gambia’s opposition Alliance of Social Democrats (ASD), Marie Sock, has described the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final match between Senegal and Morocco as a reflection of Africa’s resilience and ongoing struggle against injustice.
In a statement issued on Monday, Sock praised the determination and fighting spirit of the Senegalese team, saying their performance mirrored the broader challenges faced by African societies.
She said Senegal experienced what she described as “moments of unfair treatment during the match”, arguing that the incident reflected systemic injustices across the continent.
“What is fair in a corrupted system?” Sock asked, stressing that confronting injustice required courage and decisive action rather than passive acceptance.
According to her, corrupt systems must be challenged, noting that meaningful change comes through resistance and persistence.
Sock commended the discipline and leadership displayed by the Senegalese players, highlighting their ability to regroup, regain confidence, and continue competing with intensity despite adversity.
Describing the encounter as emotionally charged, she said it inspired pride and excitement as the team stood its ground under pressure.
She added that the match captured the essence of African identity and resilience, emphasising that the same determination should be applied to political and institutional reforms across the continent.
“With that same fierceness and tenacity, we can bring change into our countries,” she said.
Sock called for the dismantling of ineffective systems and their replacement with stronger governance structures for the future of The Gambia and Africa.
The match between Senegal and Morocco was thrown into confusion when Senegal vehemently protested against a penalty awarded to Morocco in the final minute of added time during regulation.
Senegalese head coach Pape Thiaw marched his players off the field in protest, forcing a brief suspension of the match.
Play resumed after Senegalese star Sadio Mané went to the dressing room and persuaded his teammates to return to the pitch.
Moroccan midfielder Brahim Díaz, the tournament’s top scorer, failed to convert the penalty as Senegalese goalkeeper Édouard Mendy saved the spot kick.
Senegal eventually won the match 1–0 after extra time, with Pape Gueye scoring a stunning left-footed strike from the edge of the area in the 94th minute.
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