The streets of Dakar were a sea of green, yellow, and red late Monday night as Senegal’s national football team returned home as the newly crowned kings of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye personally greeted the team at the airport, delivering a stirring tribute to the squad’s determination and discipline throughout the continental tournament.
Presidential Praise for National Heroes
During the welcoming ceremony, President Faye emphasized the team’s unwavering commitment to their mission. He praised the players for their sportsmanship and the pride they brought to the nation.
“During the entire competition, we felt they had this mission in mind and in their hearts to bring back this cup,” the President remarked. He further characterized their performance as “heroic” and “exemplary,” noting that the team played beautiful football with incredible fairness both on and off the field.
A Tense and Dramatic Final
Senegal secured the championship by defeating the host nation, Morocco, with a narrow 1-0 victory on Saturday. The match was defined by its intensity and several moments of drama:
- Atmospheric Chaos: At one point during the high-stakes final, local fans reportedly attempted to storm the field.
- Protest and Controversy: The Senegalese team faced scrutiny from some commentators after walking off the pitch briefly in protest against a controversial penalty decision.
Despite these hurdles, the Teranga Lions remained focused, securing the goal necessary to clinch the title.
Celebrations in the Capital
In Dakar, the controversies of the final match were overshadowed by pure jubilation. Fans gathered in massive numbers, waving flags and chanting the names of their favorite stars, including world-renowned forward Sadio Mané.
Bamba Sene, a local supporter, captured the mood of the city: “We are here to celebrate our cup and our champions. We are happy today and proud to be Senegalese.”
Securing a Continental Legacy
This victory marks Senegal’s second Africa Cup of Nations title. The nation’s first historic win occurred in 2022 when the team defeated Egypt in a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout. By winning in 2026, the Teranga Lions have firmly established themselves as a dominant force in African football.
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