Senegal's players paraded the Africa Cup of Nations trophy before their friendly match against Peru at Stade de France, a move that has sparked controversy given their recent title controversy. Senegal was stripped of the title earlier this month after Morocco was declared the winner of the 2025 Afcon tournament following a Caf decision. The decision was made after the Confederation of African Football (Caf) overturned the result of January's final, citing a stoppage-time penalty awarded to Morocco.
The stoppage-time penalty was awarded when the score was 0-0, prompting Senegal's players to leave the field in protest. After a 17-minute delay, Morocco failed to score the penalty, but Senegal ultimately netted an extra-time winner. However, following an appeal by the Moroccan FA (FRMF), Caf later ruled that Senegal had forfeited the match and awarded a 3-0 victory to Morocco.
Senegal has since lodged an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas), which has promised to rule on the matter "as swiftly as possible". The move to parade the trophy has added fuel to the fire, with many questioning the team's actions given the ongoing controversy.
Senegal's decision to parade the Afcon trophy before their friendly match against Peru is a bold statement that highlights their determination to defend their title. Despite the Caf decision stripping them of the trophy, the team's confidence and spirit remain unbroken. With an appeal pending at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, Senegal's chances of reinstatement are still alive, and their actions on the pitch will be closely watched. This friendly match against Peru will be a crucial test of the team's resolve and commitment to their cause.
