“No one can take our victory away” – Idrissa Gana Gueye insists after CAF strips Senegal of AFCON 2025 title

Senegal captain Idrissa Gana Gueye has openly challenged the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) controversial decision to strip the Lions of Teranga of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title and award it to Morocco.

Gana Gueye played a key role in Senegal’s 1-0 victory over Morocco in the final held last January in Rabat, a match marked by high drama, including the temporary withdrawal of Senegalese players in protest against a late penalty awarded to the home side. Although Brahim Diaz failed to convert the penalty, the incident sparked widespread tension inside the stadium.

Despite CAF initially recognising Senegal’s on-field victory, the governing body later issued a historic ruling overturning the result, awarding Morocco a 3-0 win due to the temporary walk-off by coach Pape Thiaw’s squad.

Reacting to the decision, Gana Gueye took to Instagram, writing, “We know what we experienced that night in Rabat, and no one can take that away from us, God willing.”

He emphasised the importance of the experience over medals and trophies: “Titles, trophies, medals… all of that is temporary. What really matters is that every fan gets home and is reunited with their family.”

He added, “The Senegalese people have shown their true colors: dignity in victory, and dignity in adversity. This is ‘Teranga’—the spirit of hospitality and Senegalese values.”

Concluding his message, the 36-year-old midfielder reaffirmed his determination and that of his team: “We will come back stronger.”

Gana Gueye’s statement reflects the resilience and pride of Senegalese football, sending a powerful message that, while administrative rulings may alter records, they cannot erase the memories, effort, and spirit of those who competed on the pitch.