Senegal stands firm: Pape Gueye refuses to surrender CAN 2025 trophy
The debate over the CAN 2025 title continues to rage, with Senegalese footballer Pape Gueye making his stance crystal clear. The Villarreal midfielder, who scored in the final against Morocco, insists the Lions of Teranga remain champions despite the CAF’s decision to strip them of their victory.
why the Senegal team believes they deserve the trophy
Speaking to L’Équipe, Gueye emphasized the legitimacy of Senegal’s triumph. “Of course we’re African champions—it’s as simple as that,” he declared. “We won that final on the pitch, and the whole world saw it. There were controversial moments, the interruption, but the match resumed. When the penalty was awarded, no Moroccan player wanted to stop—they all wanted to take it. So why should the result be overturned? Besides, our medals are already in our hands.”
The controversy stemmed from late-game decisions in the final. Senegal had a goal disallowed before a penalty was awarded to Morocco. The Lions initially walked off the field but later returned. Brahim Díaz’s missed penalty—a panenka—did little to resolve the tension.
Pape Gueye sealed Senegal’s victory in extra time with the decisive goal. His teammate Idrissa Gueye jokingly suggested surrendering the medal to ease tensions, but Pape quickly shut down the idea: “No, no—that was just a joke. I told him I’m not giving up my medal! The whole world knows Senegal won the cup.”
caf’s decision and Senegal’s appeal to the cas
In late March, Senegal presented their CAN 2025 trophy during a friendly match at the Stade de France. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) later stripped them of the title following an appeal. The Senegalese Football Federation responded by taking the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The CAS has not yet announced a timeline for its ruling, but the process will mark the end of this ongoing saga. Neither team will have further recourse once the decision is made.
what’s next for the 2025 african cup of nations
While the legal battle unfolds, Senegal maintains its claim to the title. The nation’s football federation remains hopeful that justice will prevail. Meanwhile, the CAF has pledged reforms to address the controversies surrounding the tournament, though details remain scarce.
The final word may soon come from the CAS, but for now, Senegal’s players and fans are holding onto their belief in their hard-earned victory.