Senegal parade Afcon trophy in Paris amid title controversy
Senegal parade Afcon trophy in Paris amid title controversy
Senegal celebrate the Afcon trophy in Paris ahead of a Peru friendly, even as the title dispute continues after a recent stripping.
Senegal rolled out the Africa Cup of Nations trophy in Paris on Saturday, giving it a lap of honour before a friendly with Peru at the Stade de France. Captain Kalidou Koulibaly led the procession alongside his teammates, lifting the cup before heading to the presidential box. The side wore a two-star kit, signaling two Afcon titles—the disputed 2025 crown and the 2021 triumph.
Senegal struck twice as they beat Peru 2-0, with Nicolas Jackson (on loan to Bayern Munich from Chelsea) scoring and Ismaila Sarr (Crystal Palace) also on target. The result came as part of their World Cup preparations, and the match marked the team’s first since the Afcon final.
The trophy parade occurs amid ongoing controversy after Senegal were stripped of the 2025 title earlier this month following a legal appeal. Despite the dispute, the federation emphasized the celebration centered on the players and the fans who have supported the team through a turbulent period.
The squad face a tough World Cup group draw, having France, Norway and either Bolivia or Iraq in their section. As fans watched in Paris, the moment also sparked discussion about symbolism and legitimacy as the legal process continues.
While some praised the display as defiant pride, others questioned the gesture given the unresolved title dispute. The ceremony, nonetheless, adds a charged backdrop to Senegal’s final World Cup preparations and their hopes in a challenging year for the national team.
