Idrissa Gueye: CAF decision dividing Africa, Senegal remains true AFCON champions

Senegal midfielder Idrissa Gueye has publicly condemned the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for stripping the national team of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, calling the ruling “a distraction meant to divide Africa.”

Speaking after Everton’s 3-0 win over Chelsea last week, Gueye insisted that, despite CAF’s decision, Senegal remains the rightful champion.

“We know we are the African champions. For us, that doesn’t change anything. This announcement feels like a distraction meant to divide Africa. If it were up to me, I would have advised the Senegal federation not to appeal,” he said.

Gueye also offered a personal gesture aimed at easing tensions with Morocco, the nation that successfully challenged Senegal’s title.

“I personally commit to collecting the medals and giving them back to Morocco if that helps ease the situation between the two countries,” Gueye added.

The decision to annul Senegal’s title followed an appeal by the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football and has been met with widespread criticism from players, officials, and fans.

Gueye’s comments underscore the sense of frustration felt by many in Senegal, who argue that the ruling undermines the team’s efforts on the pitch.

CAF has defended its ruling, citing adherence to regulations, but critics say the timing and lack of transparency have only intensified divisions within African football.

With Senegal yet to file an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), the dispute continues to hang over the continent’s football calendar.

Gueye’s statements reflect both pride in Senegal’s achievement and a call for unity, emphasizing that football should bring nations together rather than create conflict.