Pape Gueye refuses to return AFCON medal amid ongoing controversy

Senegal international Pape Gueye has made it clear that he will not return his winners’ medal despite the decision by the Confederation of African Football to strip Senegal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title.

The midfielder, who scored the decisive goal in the final against Morocco, insisted in an interview with L’Equipe that he still considers Senegal the rightful champions.

The final, played on January 18, 2026, ended in a 1-0 victory after extra time, before the title was later withdrawn in March following CAF’s ruling.

“Yes, of course, because we are simply the African champions. We were able to win the final on the pitch, and the whole world saw it. There were some incidents in the match, and it was stopped, but it was completed.”

He continued, “When a penalty kick was awarded, no Moroccan player wanted to stop the match; everyone wanted to continue. So why is there controversy about the result? Besides, the medals are here with us.”

The final itself was overshadowed by late drama, including a disallowed Senegal goal and a penalty awarded to Morocco, which led to protests from Senegalese players and a temporary walk-off. After play resumed, Brahim Díaz missed a penalty using a Panenka attempt.

Gueye eventually scored the winning goal in extra time, sealing what appeared to be a historic triumph for Senegal. However, the aftermath has been marked by division, with teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye previously suggesting he would be willing to return his medal to ease tensions.

Pape Gueye, however, dismissed that idea, reinforcing his stance that Senegal’s victory on the pitch should stand, regardless of the administrative decision that followed.