Senegal‘s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye declared a nationwide paid public holiday to celebrate the Teranga Lions’ triumph at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The announcement comes after Senegal’s national football team defeated host nation Morocco 1-0 in the AFCON 2025 final on Sunday, January 18, 2026, in Rabat. Public sector employees will receive full pay for the day, allowing the country to join in commemorating the historic victory.
The final, held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, was a tense and controversial affair. Senegal clinched the title after extra time, but the match was overshadowed by contentious moments, prolonged stoppages, and a brief walk-off by the visiting players.
Late in regulation, referee Jean Jacques Mdala awarded Morocco a penalty following a VAR review for a challenge on Brahim Diaz, with the score tied at 0-0. Senegal players immediately protested, surrounding the referee and halting play for several minutes. Fans in the stands also clashed with Moroccan security, further escalating tensions.
Football’s governing bodies have condemned the disorder. FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) criticized the “unacceptable scenes” that unfolded during the final, with CAF vowing to take “appropriate action” against anyone found responsible.
In an official statement on Monday, CAF stressed that it does not assign blame to either team while reviewing the incidents.
“The Confederation Africaine de Football (CAF) condemns the unacceptable behaviour from some players and officials during the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Final between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat last night,” the statement read.
“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organizers. CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty.”
