Senegal international Iliman Ndiaye celebration reignites AFCON debate after Everton win

Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye used his goal celebration to deliver a pointed message following his side’s emphatic victory over Chelsea, drawing fresh attention to the ongoing dispute surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Senegal international, who impressed during the match, found the net with a well-taken effort, placing the ball into the top corner beyond goalkeeper Robert Sánchez.

However, it was his actions after scoring that became the focal point.

Ndiaye was joined by teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye, and together they raised two fingers, a gesture interpreted as a reference to Senegal’s two continental titles.

Both players were part of the national team involved in the most recent Africa Cup of Nations final, which remains at the centre of controversy.

The celebration comes amid continued reaction to the decision by the Confederation of African Football’s appeals committee to strip Senegal of their title, despite their victory over Morocco in the final.

The ruling has generated strong responses and remains a source of frustration among Senegalese supporters.

After the match, Ndiaye reinforced his message by approaching the camera and speaking directly.

“African Champions,” he declared in English.

The statement appeared to underline Senegal’s stance on the situation, as the national team continues to contest the decision.

The gesture and words combined to create a moment that extended beyond the match itself, bringing the debate back into the spotlight.

While the result on the pitch highlighted Everton’s performance, the post-goal celebration ensured that attention quickly shifted to the wider context.

The incident adds another chapter to a dispute that continues to resonate within African football.