Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has declared Monday a paid public holiday to celebrate the country’s victory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The announcement followed Senegal’s dramatic 1–0 victory over hosts Morocco in Sunday’s AFCON final, played on January 18, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
In a statement, the presidency said the holiday would be observed nationwide, with full salaries paid to public-sector workers, to allow citizens to participate in celebrations marking the historic triumph by the national team, the Teranga Lions.
Senegal secured the title after extra time in a tense and controversial final that was goalless at the end of regulation. The match was repeatedly interrupted late in normal time following a contentious penalty awarded to Morocco after a VAR review.
The decision sparked protests from Senegal players, who surrounded the referee and briefly walked off the pitch, leading to prolonged stoppages and chaotic scenes inside the stadium.
Despite the disruptions, the match proceeded into extra time, where Senegal eventually scored the decisive goal to clinch the continental title.
‘Unacceptable scenes’
Meanwhile, football governing bodies FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have condemned the “unacceptable scenes” that marred the final, with CAF vowing to take disciplinary action against those found culpable.
The controversy erupted late in the match when referee Jean Jacques Mdala awarded Morocco a penalty for a challenge on Brahim Diaz while the score remained 0–0. In protest, several Senegal players walked off the pitch, while clashes were reported in the stands involving some Senegalese supporters and Moroccan security personnel.
In a statement issued on Monday, CAF condemned the conduct of some players and officials but stopped short of attributing blame to either team.
“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,” the statement read.
“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour during matches, particularly actions directed at match officials or organisers. CAF is reviewing all available footage and will refer the matter to the appropriate bodies for disciplinary action against those found guilty.”
The football body said further updates would follow after its disciplinary review.
