Senegal remain Africa’s champions despite AFCON dispute – Iliman Ndiaye

Senegal forward Iliman Ndiaye has insisted the Teranga Lions consider themselves “champions of Africa” and will not be distracted by the ongoing legal dispute surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup.

The controversy stems from a dramatic AFCON final in January, where Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 after extra time in a match filled with tension and controversy. Senegal players, including Ndiaye, briefly walked off the pitch in protest after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco in second-half stoppage time.

Play eventually resumed after a 17-minute delay, during which Morocco’s Brahim Díaz saw his Panenka-style penalty saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy. Senegal then went on to seal victory in extra time through Pape Gueye.

However, in March, a Confederation of African Football (CAF) appeals board ruled that Morocco be awarded the title, citing a breach of competition regulations after Senegal players left the pitch without referee permission.

Senegal’s football federation has since escalated the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), where a final ruling is still pending.

Despite the uncertainty, Ndiaye maintains Senegal’s position is unchanged.

“Obviously, in our eyes and many other people’s eyes, we are the champions of Africa,” he told BBC World Service programme Newsday. “Whatever their decisions will be, it doesn’t disturb us.”

He added that Senegal’s mentality remains intact as attention shifts to the global stage.

“Whatever their decisions will [be], it doesn’t disturb us.

“The same focus and hunger and determination that we had going into the Afcon, we’re going to do the same going into the World Cup. It’s another trophy on the line and nothing’s going to distract us.”

Senegal will compete in Group I at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, where they will face France, Norway and Iraq.