Senegal president Bassirou Faye praises Teranga Lions for ‘exemplary conduct’ at AFCON 2025

Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has commended the Teranga Lions for ‘their exemplary conduct’ at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, highlighting the team’s determination and sportsmanship despite a dramatic final.

The praise comes amid widespread criticism of the champions for the controversial incidents that marred their 1-0 extra-time victory over hosts Morocco at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

The match was tense from the outset, culminating in a stoppage-time penalty for Morocco after left-back El Hadji Malick Diouf fouled Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz.

Coach Pape Thiaw briefly ordered Senegal’s players off the pitch in protest. Sadio Mane intervened, recalling his teammates to the field after over 10 minutes, allowing Pape Gueye to score the decisive goal.

While some observers, including Morocco coach Walid Regragui, criticized Senegal’s walk-off as unsporting, Faye focused on the positives.

Speaking to the delegation upon their arrival at Blaise Diagne International Airport, he said: “You were determined to bring this cup home, and you did so heroically, playing beautiful football, with fair play and exemplary conduct, both on and off the field. Know that this victory belongs to all the Senegalese people.”

The president is scheduled to meet the squad again on Wednesday ahead of a victory parade through Dakar to celebrate Senegal’s second AFCON title.