Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Morocco erupted into chaos as Senegal players protested a controversial late penalty awarded to Morocco, delaying the match for nearly 20 minutes.

Following the decision, most of the Senegal team walked off the pitch while some away fans hurled objects as they attempted to enter the field. Morocco had a chance to win the final with virtually the last kick of the match.

After a tense 24 minutes of added time, Brahim Diaz stepped up to take the penalty. His chipped shot, however, was brilliantly saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, keeping the score level at 0-0 and sending the match into extra time.

The penalty decision came after a lengthy VAR review, which judged that Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf had fouled Diaz inside the box. Diaz, along with the Moroccan bench, passionately protested for the call, further inflaming tensions on the field.

Security personnel and stewards quickly formed barriers in front of a small group of Senegal supporters, restoring order just as extra time commenced.

The incident highlighted the high stakes and drama of the AFCON final, as tempers flared both on the pitch and in the stands.