Idrissa Gueye speaks out following CAF decision on AFCON final

The decision has prompted widespread reaction across Senegal, with members of the national team now beginning to address the situation.

Gueye is the latest senior figure to comment, sharing his thoughts in a message posted on social media.

Writing on his Instagram account, the Everton player struck a calm and reflective tone, focusing less on the loss of the title and more on the broader meaning of the moment for both the team and their supporters.

“Titles, trophies, medals… all of that is fleeting. What truly matters is that every supporter can return home and be with their family.

The Senegalese people have shown their true character: dignified in victory, dignified in adversity.

That is Teranga. We know what we experienced that night in Rabat. And that, no one can take away from us, God willing,” he wrote.

His comments come after CAF’s ruling, which has reverberated throughout the country and left fans and players grappling with the outcome.

The final, originally celebrated as a triumph for Senegal, has now become the centre of controversy following the governing body’s intervention.

Gueye accompanied his message with an image taken during the trophy presentation on 18 January in Rabat, a moment that had initially marked what was believed to be a historic success for the Lions of Teranga.

While other players have also begun to respond in recent days, Gueye’s statement stands out for its measured tone and emphasis on unity.

Rather than directly criticising the decision, he highlighted the resilience and character of the Senegalese people.

The situation continues to develop, with reactions expected to grow as more members of the squad and football community share their views on one of the most contentious conclusions to an AFCON final in recent years.