Senegal is set to pause for a day of national celebration. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has declared Monday a paid public holiday to honour the country’s dramatic triumph at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The announcement came hours after the national team, the Lions of Teranga, were crowned champions of Africa following a tense and controversial final against hosts Morocco.
Speaking on state broadcaster RTS, Faye urged citizens to mark the occasion with unity and dignity.
“This Monday will be considered a paid public holiday. Senegalese people will celebrate. Then we must welcome the Lions properly and congratulate them,” he said.
The victory marks Senegal’s second AFCON title, their first having come in Cameroon in 2022. The latest win underlines the consistency and quality of a generation of players who have helped cement Senegal’s status as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.
By immediately involving the nation in celebrations, Faye aimed to turn the football triumph into a broader symbol of national unity. The gesture also honours the players and technical team for their resilience under intense pressure.
A final full of drama
The 2025 AFCON final was far from straightforward. Senegal defeated Morocco, but the match was temporarily halted in stoppage time after the hosts were awarded a penalty while the score remained 0-0.
Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded the penalty following a VAR review of a challenge on Morocco’s Brahim Diaz by Senegal’s El Hadji Malick Diouf. The decision sparked furious protests from Senegalese players and supporters.
Diaz, a winger for Real Madrid, stepped up but failed to convert, with Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saving the weak Panenka attempt. The miss sent the game into extra time.
Senegal capitalised on the momentum, with Gueye scoring a decisive strike in the 94th minute to secure victory in front of 66,526 Moroccan fans at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
Earlier, Senegal had already been angered when Ismaila Sarr’s goal was disallowed in the second minute of added time, adding to the tension of the closing stages.
National jubilation
Scenes of celebration erupted across Senegal immediately after the final whistle. Streets filled with supporters waving flags, honking horns, and chanting in joy.
By declaring a paid public holiday, President Faye ensured that the entire nation could participate in welcoming the champions. Analysts say the move reinforces football’s role in national unity and pride.
“The Lions have given the country more than a trophy; they have given us a moment to come together,” said sports journalist Amadou Diop in Dakar. “This is about football, yes, but also about Senegalese identity and resilience.”
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