Senegal Continues to Flaunt AFCON 2025 Trophy Despite Revoked Title, Mocks CAF Decision

Senegal National Team confidently displayed the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 trophy to the public, even though their Champions title had been officially revoked by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

This symbolic act took place ahead of the international friendly match against Peru at the Stade de France, Paris, on March 28, 2026. About an hour before kick-off, the Senegal players and coach Pape Bouna Thiaw entered the field carrying the trophy in front of tens of thousands of spectators.

Amid the ongoing controversy, Senegal's performance on the pitch remained impressive. They secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Peru in that match.

The opening goal was scored by Nicolas Jackson in the 41st minute after capitalizing on a pass resulting from a brilliant individual effort by Ibrahima Mbaye. Senegal's lead was extended in the 54th minute by Ismaila Sarr, who successfully pounced on a rebound and maneuvered past two opposing defenders.

This victory was Senegal's first since the AFCON final last January, where they had defeated Morocco before the title was revoked.

A controversial decision was made by CAF through its appeals body, which subsequently named Morocco as champions. This followed Senegal staging a 14-minute walk-out during the final match.

Not accepting the decision, Senegal took legal action by suing CAF at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Coach Pape Bouna Thiaw also insisted that his team are the legitimate African champions.

As an act of defiance, Senegal also continues to wear jerseys featuring two stars symbolizing the AFCON 2021 and 2025 titles, while awaiting the official ruling from CAS.