Pape Gueye amused by Algerian support after AFCON 2025 final goal against Morocco

Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye has opened up about the unexpected wave of support he received from Algerian fans following his decisive goal against Morocco in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.

Speaking to SoFoot magazine, the Villarreal CF midfielder admitted he was taken aback by the overwhelming number of messages sent his way by supporters from Algeria, many of whom were delighted with his role in preventing their long-time rivals from lifting the continental title.

“The Algerians? No need to say anything… Thanks to them, I now have a million followers on Instagram. They all sent me messages after the match saying: ‘Brother, we are very happy, thank you, we didn’t want Morocco to win!’” he said.

Gueye added humorously, “If I go to Algeria tomorrow, I think they will greet me with a limousine!”

The midfielder scored the only goal in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, a match that ended 1-0 in favour of Senegal. However, the outcome of the tournament remains unresolved following a series of dramatic developments.

The final was marred by controversy after Senegalese players briefly walked off the pitch, prompting the Moroccan Football Federation to lodge a protest. The appeal was upheld by the CAF Appeals Committee, which subsequently awarded Morocco a 3-0 victory.

Senegal have since challenged that decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with a final ruling expected in the coming months.

Despite the ongoing dispute, the Lions of Teranga have already celebrated their triumph, marking the occasion twice ahead of their recent friendly matches against Peru and Gambia during the March international break.