PARIS, FRANCE – Senegal’s national football team paraded the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy at the Stade de France in Paris on Friday, despite the Confederation of African Football (CAF) stripping the nation of the 2025 title following a protracted legal dispute.
The dramatic display came hours after the Senegalese Football Federation announced it would not recognize CAF’s decision to award the trophy to Morocco, who were declared champions after the tournament final. Senegal had initially won the final but was later disqualified over alleged fielding of an ineligible player.
Hundreds of Senegalese fans gathered outside the stadium to celebrate what they called their “true victory,” waving flags and singing national anthems as players held the trophy aloft.
“We are here to tell the world that Senegal won that final. No ruling can take that away from us,” a team spokesperson said.
CAF has yet to comment on the Paris parade. Morocco, who have been officially recognized as champions, have maintained a dignified silence on the matter.
The controversy has deepened divisions within African football, with Senegal expected to file an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in the coming days.
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