Senegal displayed the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy ahead of their friendly against Peru at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis on Saturday. This was despite an order from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for the team to return the trophy. About an hour before kick-off, Senegal’s players and coach Pape Bouna Thiaw cycled across the pitch carrying the trophy to an enthusiastic response from a nearly full stadium.
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CAF overturned Senegal’s 1-0 final win over Morocco on 17 Marchawarded a 3-0 victory to Morocco due to Senegal’s players leaving the pitch without the referee’s permission during a January 18 match in Rabat.
Before the match against Peru, Senegal captain Kalidou Coulibaly and his teammates showed off the AFCON trophy after a concert by Senegalese singer Youssou Ndour. Coulibaly and goalkeeper Edouard Mendy then placed the trophy in the presidential box of the stadium in front of Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Federation.
The AFCON finals descended into disorder when Senegal’s players walked off in protest after Morocco were awarded a penalty late in stoppage time. Captain Sadio Mane convinced the team to come back and after Moroccan Brahim Diaz missed a penalty, Pape Gueye scored in extra time to give Senegal a 1-0 victory.
CAF ruled that Senegal’s players broke the rules by leaving the pitch without permission. The Senegalese Football Federation appealed decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and is determined to retain the title.
On a separate note, Senegal edged Peru in Saturday’s game. Nicolas Jackson scored the first goal easily after an emphatic run from Senegal youth player Ibrahima Mbaye, who came on in Mane’s absence. Sarr then scored the second goal after beating two defenders after a rebound.
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Published on:
March 29, 2026 01:32 IST
