Stade Rennais head coach Habib Beye has hailed Senegal’s performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, insisting the Teranga Lions were superior throughout the tournament and fully deserved the title.
Senegal clinched a tense victory over the host nation in the final, sealed by Pape Gueye’s spectacular strike after Brahim Diaz failed to convert from the penalty spot.
Speaking ahead of Rennes’ Ligue 1 clash with Lorient, Beye reflected on the historic moment and the significance of Senegal becoming two-time African champions.
“There is great joy because I saw exceptional images in my country of the fervour surrounding this trophy and the fact that we are two-time African champions,” he declared.
Beye stressed that Senegal’s triumph was earned through their play on the field.
“From the moment the match resumed, I think that, based solely on Senegal’s performance on the pitch, the victory was deserved. I believe we were superior in our play throughout the competition and in this final.”
He also spoke about the emotional rollercoaster of the final, describing the match as intense and the winning goal as “magnificent.”
“The scenario was incredible in terms of emotion; the goal was magnificent.”
The former national team defender expressed particular pride in seeing familiar faces succeed, highlighting the achievements of former teammate Pape Thiaw.
“My pride comes from witnessing the success of people with whom I shared part of my history, like Pape Thiaw, with whom I played on the national team.”
While acknowledging the controversies that surrounded the final, Beye chose not to dwell on them.
“A lot happened. We didn’t like some of the images; we can’t condone them, but they were part of this final.”
AFCON 2027 qualifiers: Ghana vs Gambia – Preview, talking points and match details Sep 27, 2026
