The Senegal national football team continues to assert its claim to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) title, even as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reversed their on-field victory against Morocco.
Midfielder Pape Gueye, who scored the decisive goal in the final, remains unyielding in his stance. In a recent interview with L’Équipe, he declared, “Of course we are Africa’s champions—it’s that simple. We won that final on the pitch, and the entire world saw it.”
on-field triumph overshadowed by administrative reversal
The controversy stems from a highly disputed match in January 2025, where Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 in extra time. However, CAF’s appeals committee later overturned the result due to procedural irregularities, stripping Senegal of their title. Despite this, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Gueye emphasized the legitimacy of Senegal’s victory, stating, “The game was interrupted, but it resumed. No Moroccan player wanted to stop the match—they all wanted to take the penalty. Why should the outcome be questioned now? And our medals? They are already with us.”
medals remain with Senegal, despite calls for compromise
The debate intensified when teammate Idrissa Gueye jokingly mentioned returning his medal to ease tensions. Pape Gueye swiftly clarified, “No, that was just a joke. I told him I have no intention of giving up my medal. The world knows Senegal won the cup.”
In late March, Senegal displayed their trophy during a friendly match at the Stade de France, reaffirming their claim to the title. The CAS has yet to announce a timeline for its decision, leaving the final resolution uncertain.
what’s next for the africa cup of nations?
The CAS ruling will mark the end of this contentious chapter. Until then, Senegal stands firm in its belief that justice will prevail, while Morocco awaits the official outcome with equal anticipation.
