Senegal continues to provoke the African Football Confederation

Senegal brought the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy onto the field before their 2-0 victory over Peru, despite Morocco being the recently recognized champion.

This development follows a surprising decision. Last week, Morocco was officially declared the champion of AFCON 2026, even though they lost 0-1 to Senegal in the final back in January.

The appeals committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) overturned the final result and ruled Senegal's loss. After the host Morocco received a penalty in the closing minutes, they left the field to protest, following coach Pape Thiaw's directive.

Senegal then returned to play and witnessed Brahim Diaz failing to capitalize on the penalty, as his shot was blocked by former Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Senegal later secured victory thanks to a stunning extra-time goal by Pape Gueye and maintained the score until the end.

However, according to the latest ruling, Morocco was awarded a 3-0 win and became the reigning AFCON champion. Senegal appealed this decision, and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) will conduct the arbitration process "as quickly as possible".

Despite being stripped of the title, Senegal still demonstrated their belief that they deserve to reclaim the championship by publicly bringing the trophy onto the field.

Before the friendly match against Peru in Paris, captain Kalidou Koulibaly and his teammates entered the Stade de France holding the trophy, prior to performing an honorary lap around the stadium.

Afterwards, Koulibaly and Edouard Mendy placed the trophy in the stadium's VIP seating area.

Not stopping there, Senegal also played with two stars on their chest, symbolizing the two AFCON championships they believe they have won, including the 2021 title and the recently revoked trophy.

It is noteworthy that just last week, Senegal announced that their World Cup jersey would feature only one star.

While awaiting the appeal outcome from CAS, Senegal continues preparing for this summer's World Cup. After the victory over Peru, Senegal will have one more match against Gambia before concluding the March international camp.

In the World Cup group stage, Senegal is placed in Group I alongside France, Norway, and the winner of the intercontinental playoff between Bolivia and Iraq.

One year later, the next AFCON will take place, and Senegal hopes to arrive at the tournament as the reigning champion.