The Confederation of African Football stunned many when it overturned Senegal’s 1-0 extra-time victory over Morocco, instead awarding the hosts a 3-0 win after punishing the West Africans for a 15-minute walk-off during the match in Rabat.
“It’s just ridiculous… a football match is won on the pitch,” Gueye told Canal+ after helping Everton win 3-0 against Chelsea in the English Premier League tie this past weekend, Flashscore wrote.
“We did what we had to do, and we won that match. We deserve to be African champions.”
Despite his strong words, Gueye also struck a diplomatic tone, suggesting he would be willing to give up the medals if it could help calm the growing tensions between the two nations.
“I personally commit to collecting the medals and maybe giving them back to Morocco if that can ease tensions,” he added.
The final descended into chaos late in normal time when Morocco were awarded a controversial penalty, prompting Senegal’s players to leave the pitch in protest. After a lengthy delay, play resumed, with Brahim Díaz missing from the spot before Senegal secured victory through Pape Gueye in extra time.
Gueye, who captained the side in the absence of Kalidou Koulibaly, also questioned the decision to appeal the matter at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, suggesting prolonging the dispute may not be the best solution.
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Gavin Hunt, head coach of Stellenbosch, has weighed in on the controversial decision by CAF to award Morocco the 2025 AFCON title following their appeal against Senegal.
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Patrice Motsepe has defended the integrity of African football's governing structures following the explosive decision to award Morocco the 2025 AFCON title via a 3-0 forfeit against Senegal.
