By: Abdoulie John
In a surprising and conciliatory gesture amid one of African football’s most contentious decisions, Senegal midfielder Idrissa “Gana” Gueye has publicly committed to collecting and returning the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 winner’s medals to Morocco.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) stunned the continent earlier this month by stripping Senegal of its title following the chaotic final in Rabat in January. Senegal had initially triumphed 1-0 in extra time against hosts Morocco, but a late-game walk-off protest by Senegalese players—sparked by a controversial penalty award—led CAF’s appeal board to rule that Senegal forfeited the match under competition regulations. The result was overturned to a 3-0 default win for Morocco, handing the North African nation their first AFCON crown since 1976.
The ruling has sparked widespread outrage in Senegal, with the country’s football federation vowing to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, and even government officials calling for probes into alleged corruption at CAF. Fans and analysts have branded the decision a “disgrace for Africa,” arguing titles should be decided on the pitch rather than in boardrooms.
Despite the frustration, Gueye— a key member of Senegal’s squad and a veteran midfielder—took a measured tone in a video statement shared by Dakar-based investigative outlet Kewoulo. “Titles are won on the football field, not in offices,” he said firmly, voicing strong disagreement with CAF’s verdict. Yet he pledged personal action to de-escalate rising tensions between the two nations: “I personally commit to collecting the medals and returning them to Morocco… if that can help ease tensions between the two countries.”
The offer highlights Gueye’s desire to prioritize regional harmony over prolonged acrimony, even as Senegal maintains they remain the rightful champions earned through on-field performance.
Meanwhile, unconfirmed reports suggest Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has downplayed the awarded title, with indications the squad does not view it as a true victory on the pitch. Morocco’s football federation has acknowledged CAF’s ruling but emphasized adherence to regulations without elaborate celebrations.
As Senegal prepares its formal appeal, Gueye’s gesture stands out as a rare olive branch in a saga that continues to divide African football. Whether the medals are returned in person remains uncertain, but the midfielder’s words underscore a call for unity beyond the boardroom battle.
