Senegal coach Pape Thiaw has explained why his outfit nearly boycotted the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco.
The Taranga Lions walked-off the pitch after referee Jacques Ndala awarded a penalty kick to Morocco, minutes after disallowing a goal for the Taranga Lions.
But Sadio Mane intervened and rallied his teammates to return to the pitch for the continuation of the match. Their return paid off, with Pape Gueye netting the match winner after Brahim Diaz penalty miss.
“We had an exceptional tournament with magnificent organization, which unfortunately ended dramatically. It was never my intention to go against the principles of the game I love so much. I was just trying to protect my players from injustice”
“What some will see as a violation of the rules is nothing more than an emotional reaction to the unfairness of the situation. After consultation, we decided to resume the match and go on to win this trophy for you,” said Pape Thiaw.
“I apologise if I have hurt anyone, but football lovers will understand that emotion is an integral part of the sport.”
Meanwhile Pape Thiaw is facing a possible sanction from the Confederation of African Football, which could affect his participation at the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
For the first time, Senegal has triumphed over the host nation after five previous attempts without a victory against the home team.
The Taranga Lions now hold the second-longest unbeaten run in the Africa Cup of Nations with 18 matches, after Egypt, who hold the record with 24 matches.
