Senegal celebrates AFCON glory as champions return home

Senegal is preparing a hero’s welcome for its Africa Cup of Nations champions after their dramatic 1–0 victory over hosts Morocco, with the government declaring a national holiday and celebrations sweeping the capital.

The team is due to arrive in Dakar on Monday evening, where they will be received by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, followed by a victory parade and official reception on Tuesday.

Senegal clinched their second AFCON title on Sunday when Pape Gueye scored an extra-time winner in a tense and chaotic final. 

The match was marred by controversy, including a disallowed Senegal goal, a late Moroccan penalty saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy and protests that saw Senegal players briefly walk off the pitch.

Despite post-match disputes and complaints lodged by the Moroccan FA, celebrations erupted across Dakar and other cities, with fans filling the streets amid horns, fireworks and dancing. 

Local newspapers hailed the triumph as “Heroic” and “Unforgettable.”

While FIFA and CAF have condemned scenes that overshadowed the final and warned of possible action, many Senegalese supporters expressed pride in the team’s achievement, calling the victory a moment of national unity and regional pride.

SH