Senegal Celebrates AFCON Victory with Trophy Parade Before Clinching Friendly Win Against Peru

Senegal showcased the Africa Cup of Nations trophy to the public on Saturday, in defiance of a directive to return it following a decision by the Confederation of African Football. This ruling nullified their final triumph over Morocco.

This bold display occurred just before an international friendly against Peru in Paris, highlighting Senegal’s ongoing protest against the verdict.

The governing body had previously annulled Senegal’s 1-0 victory in the January final, instead awarding a 3-0 win to Morocco. This decision came after it was found that Senegal’s players had violated regulations by leaving the field without authorization during the game.

Trophy display before Peru friendly

Leading his team onto the Stade de France pitch, Captain Kalidou Koulibaly held the AFCON trophy aloft, much to the delight of the crowd of thousands of supporters.

This symbolic gesture was complemented by a pre-match performance from Senegalese music legend Youssou N’Dour, adding to the festive mood despite the ongoing controversy.

Koulibaly and goalkeeper Edouard Mendy later placed the trophy in the presidential box, where officials of the Senegalese Football Federation were seated.

Meanwhile, Senegal won the friendly game against Peru 2-0.

Appeal process underway

The Senegalese federation has formally appealed the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, seeking a reversal of CAF’s ruling. The appeal follows chaotic scenes in the final, where players briefly walked off in protest after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco.

Although Senegal eventually returned to the pitch and secured victory in extra time, CAF ruled that the walk-off constituted a violation of competition rules.

Focus shifts to international duty

Despite the controversy, Senegal proceeded with preparations for their friendly against Peru, marking their first outing since the disputed final.

Supporters gathered in large numbers across Saint-Denis, with many backing the team’s decision to parade the trophy.

With the appeal still pending, the situation remains unresolved.