Idrissa Gueye has sent a powerful message on Instagram after Senegal were stripped of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title on Tuesday evening.
Senegal beat hosts Morocco 2-1 in a dramatic final in January. Papa Gueye's goal in extra-time gave Senegal the victory.
There were bizarre scenes earlier in the match when Senegal manager Pape Thiaw convinced some of his players to leave the pitch after Morocco were awarded a controversial last-minute penalty.
They eventually returned to the pitch and Brahim Diaz went on to miss the spot-kick as his 'Panenka' was easily gathered by Edouard Mendy.
Senegal have now been punished for their actions, with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeal Board declaring that they have forfeited and Morocco given a 3-0 victory.
Idrissa Gueye Responds After Senegal Are Stripped of AFCON Title
Idrissa Gueye
Everton star Idrissa Gueye was integral in his nation's triumph at 2025 AFCON. He played every minute for his side in their campaign.
The 36-year-old has now reacted to Tuesday evening's bombshell news as he posted a powerful statement on social media. He wrote on Instagram:
“Titles, trophies, medals… all of that is fleeting. What truly matters is that every supporter can return home to their family. The Senegalese people have shown their true character: dignified in victory, dignified in adversity. That is Teranga. We know what we experienced that night in Rabat. And that, God willing, no one can take away from us.”
He also posted an image of him holding the trophy and putting his finger to his lips.
His Everton teammate, Iliman Ndiaye, posted an image of himself celebrating after the AFCON win, with the caption: 'Earned not given!!!'
Rayo Vallecano's Pathé Ciss posted several images of himself and his teammates celebrating their victory with the caption: 'They can give the crybabies three more goals.'
While Moussa Niakhate, who plays his club football for Lyon, posted several pictures, including one of him with the trophy, with the caption: 'This is not AI. This is real.'
Senegal Intend to Appeal Decision
Senegal
Senegal have announced their intention to appeal the decision, with the Secretary General of the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), Abdoulaye Sow, delivering an explosive interview.
He said: "The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is corrupt, and the reactions worldwide following this decision confirm total outrage. The FSF president is in discussions with all those involved. The fight is far from over. I want to reassure all Senegalese people. Senegal has the right and victory is on its side. The cup will not leave the country.
"This is a travesty; this decision is based on absolutely nothing. It has no legal foundation... The president of the federation will get in touch with the lawyers; we will engage with the appropriate authorities, and then we will go to the court of arbitration for sport, which will issue the final decision.
“We will not back down. Senegalese people should have no doubt. The truth is on Senegal’s side, the law is on Senegal’s side.“