AFCON 2025: Super Eagles legend Ighalo expresses displeasure over officiating in the final

Morocco's 50-year quest for the Africa Cup of Nations title continues after a 1-0 defeat to Senegal in Sunday's final. 

The match was still level in the final moments of normal time when Morocco were given a penalty, which would have secured the trophy for Morocco.

However, the Real Madrid midfielder failed to convert from the spot, with Senegal going all the way to win the trophy in injury time.

Ighalo voiced his frustration with the officiating, pointing out perceived inconsistencies in the use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). 

"The goal Senegal scored, the ref did not check the VAR, and the one for Morocco, he checked the VAR," he noted.

A huge drama happened in the final stage of the game after two controversial decisions were made by the referee.

Senegal had the ball in the back of the net in the 92nd minute of injury time, but the goal was ruled out for a foul that was not checked by the VAR.

Shortly after, at the other end of the pitch in the 95th minute, Morocco were awarded a penalty after Diouf was claimed to have pulled Brahim Diaz in the box.

Immediately after the incident happened, the referee was called to the screen by the VAR official and then decided to award a penalty.

Diaz stepped up to take the penalty and attempted a panenka, which Mendy saved with ease, with Ighalo later criticising the Real Madrid star.