Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye on Tuesday praised the national football team in Dakar after their hard-fought Africa Cup of Nations triumph, celebrating a victory marked by both drama and resilience.
The AFCON final against host nation Morocco on Sunday was tense, culminating in controversy when Senegalese players briefly left the pitch in protest over a disputed penalty decision during stoppage time in the second half. The match ultimately resumed, and Senegal secured a 1–0 win after extra time.
Speaking after a celebratory parade reached the presidential palace, President Faye singled out star forward Sadio Mané, describing him as far more than just a footballer. Mané has been widely credited with keeping his composure during the protest and convincing his teammates to return to the field, a move that helped prevent the match from being abandoned.
As celebrations unfolded outside the palace, supporters danced and sang while vendors sold posters of Mané, reflecting the joy of Senegal’s second AFCON title. Fans said the celebrations extended beyond Senegal’s borders, with festivities reported in neighboring countries such as Mauritania and Guinea.
“The whole world supported Senegal,” supporter Eugénie Vaz said, adding that the scenes in Dakar represented only a fraction of the widespread jubilation.
Despite the celebrations, the incident during the final drew criticism from both FIFA and the Confederation of African Football. Morocco’s football federation has also called for disciplinary measures, arguing that the walk-off disrupted the rhythm of the match and impacted player performance.
