Senegal’s national team put on a show of defiance by parading the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy in Paris, despite being officially stripped of the title following a controversial ruling.
According to reports, the Teranga Lions carried the trophy onto the pitch at the Stade de France on Saturday, ahead of their friendly match against Peru.
Led by captain Kalidou Koulibaly, the players took part in a celebratory lap of honour after a pre-match performance by renowned Senegalese musician Youssou N’Dour.
Koulibaly, alongside goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, later presented the trophy at the stadium’s presidential box in the presence of football officials, including Senegal Football Federation president Abdoulaye Fall.
The symbolic gesture came just hours after Morocco declared the matter settled, following a decision by the Confederation of African Football to overturn Senegal’s 1-0 victory in the January final.
CAF’s appeals panel awarded Morocco a 3-0 win, effectively handing them the title.
The controversy stems from Senegal’s mid-game walk-off during the final, staged in protest against a penalty awarded to Morocco.
Although the penalty was eventually missed after a 14-minute delay, the match resumed and was later decided by Pape Gueye’s extra-time goal.
While Morocco initially challenged the result without success, CAF’s appeals body later ruled in their favour.
Senegal, however, has vowed to challenge the decision, with plans to escalate the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
The Senegalese government has also weighed in, calling for an independent international investigation into the decision, citing concerns over possible corruption within African football authorities.
The post Senegal Stage Defiant Trophy Parade Despite AFCON Title Reversal first appeared on Africa Top Sports.
