Senegal President greets team as triumphant players receive heroes welcome in Dakar

Senegal’s national team returned to Dakar just after midnight Tuesday to a hero’s welcome following their dramatic victory in the Africa Cup of Nations final against host nation Morocco. The team’s arrival marked a celebratory conclusion to a tournament that ended in controversy when Senegalese players briefly walked off the pitch during the final match.

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye personally greeted the triumphant squad at the airport, showering them with praise for their performance throughout the tournament. “They did it heroically, they played beautiful football, they were incredibly fair and they were exemplary both on and off the field. We can only be proud of them,” the President told gathered media.

Outside the airport terminal, jubilant fans created a carnival atmosphere, waving national flags, sounding horns, and chanting victory songs. Many supporters had waited for hours, dressed in Senegal’s national colors of green, yellow, and red, eager to catch a glimpse of their sporting heroes.

The celebration is set to continue Tuesday morning when the team will parade through Dakar’s streets before being formally received at the presidential palace later in the day. The event is expected to draw thousands of supporters in what promises to be one of the largest public gatherings in the capital since President Faye’s election.

The final match itself was a tense affair that culminated in Pape Gueye scoring the decisive goal during extra time, securing the title for the Teranga Lions. The match in Rabat was marked by several controversial incidents, including an attempt by some fans to storm the field.

The most contentious moment came deep into second-half stoppage time when Senegalese players walked off the pitch in protest of a penalty decision. This action has drawn sharp criticism from football’s governing bodies, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino calling the walkoff “unacceptable” in a statement that was later echoed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

The incident has sparked debate within the football community about player protests during matches and the appropriate ways to contest officiating decisions. Despite the controversy, it did not dampen the celebration for Senegal, which has now established itself as a dominant force in African football.

For many Senegalese fans, the victory represents more than just sporting success. Anta Ndiaye, one of the supporters at the airport, expressed frustration about what she perceived as unfair treatment during the final. “Really, the Moroccans didn’t respect the Senegalese. We Senegalese do not have any problems,” she said, reflecting a sentiment shared by many supporters who felt their team faced additional challenges beyond just the opposition.

Another fan, Bamba Sene, who was seen circling the crowd while carrying the national flag, simply stated: “We are happy today, we are proud to be Senegalese.”

This victory further cements Senegal’s status as a football powerhouse on the African continent. The country has experienced a golden generation of talent in recent years, with players competing in top European leagues bringing international experience and tactical sophistication to the national team.

The win also provides a moment of national unity and pride for Senegal, which has recently undergone political transition with President Faye taking office. Sports victories often transcend political and social divisions, offering countries a shared moment of celebration regardless of other differences.

As the team prepares for Tuesday’s official celebrations, the focus will likely shift from the controversy of the final match to honoring the achievement of the players who have brought continental glory to Senegal once again.