Senegal midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye has recalled the tense but ultimately victorious final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations against Morocco, revealing that he and his teammates were laughing moments before returning to the pitch.
Speaking to French magazine Onze Mondial, Gueye described the chaotic scenes following a missed penalty by Morocco’s Brahim Diaz.
With the host nation awarded the spot-kick, Senegal coach Pape Thiaw sent almost the entire squad to the dressing room before play resumed.
“We spoke with the coach, and Sadio [Mané] said, ‘Let’s go back and play.’ The coach replied, ‘It’s true that the situation is complicated, but we have to come back, we have to play, it’s not a big deal.’
And then we started laughing amongst ourselves, saying, ‘Besides, he hasn’t even scored yet.’ And we kept laughing,” Gueye recalled.
The Senegalese team ultimately triumphed 1-0 in extra time, with Pape Gueye scoring the decisive goal. The victory came after Brahim Diaz failed to convert his penalty against Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, sending a Panenka attempt over the crossbar.
Gueye’s reflection highlights the blend of tension and humour that can accompany high-pressure moments in major finals.
The Senegalese squad, widely celebrated for their resilience, showed composure in the face of adversity, ultimately converting a dramatic moment into triumph.
The midfielder, known for his defensive discipline and calm presence, emphasised that the team maintained focus despite the unusual circumstances.
Their reaction in the dressing room, laughing before returning to the pitch, underscores the mental strength and camaraderie that contributed to Senegal’s victory.
Senegal’s 2025 AFCON triumph added to the nation’s growing legacy in African football, with the Lions of Teranga celebrated not only for their technical ability but also for their ability to remain united under pressure.
Gueye’s account provides rare insight into the behind-the-scenes atmosphere of a continental final, revealing a human side to the drama of international football.
