DAKAR, Senegal (AP) – The victorious Senegalese team arrived in Dakar just after midnight Tuesday after the match. Tense African Cup of Nations final Near the end of stoppage time in the second half, the players briefly left the pitch to protest the penalty decision.
The players are Senegalese President Bashir Diomai Fay gave greetings. Those who praised their performance.
“They did it heroically, played beautiful football, were incredibly fair and exemplary on and off the field. We can only be proud of them,” he said.
Outside the airport, fans wearing the national colors gathered to greet the players, waving Senegalese flags, honking their horns and singing celebratory songs.
Africa’s champions will be paraded through the streets of Senegal’s capital on Tuesday morning and will be received at the presidential palace later in the day.
Senegal defeated hosts Morocco in dramatic fashion after a heated final in Rabat.
For Teranga Lions, Pape Gueye scored the only goal of the match in extra time. The game was chaotic, with some fans attempting to invade the field.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino Senegal’s decision to leave the pitch is ‘unacceptable’ On Monday, the Confederation of African Football issued a similar statement.
Like many Senegalese fans, Anta Ndiay spoke openly about his feelings of unfairness towards his team during Sunday’s final.
“Really, Moroccans didn’t respect Senegalese. There’s nothing wrong with us Senegalese,” she said.
“I’m happy today. I’m proud to be Senegalese,” said fan Bamba Sene, who circled the crowd holding the national flag.
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