Senegal players return home to heroes’ welcome after dramatic Afcon victory

WorldFootball
20 Jan 2026 • 7:12 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Senegal's football team received a hero's welcome in Dakar after winning the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) on Sunday night.
  • The victory was overshadowed by controversy during the final against Morocco, where Senegalese players briefly walked off the pitch in protest over a disputed penalty call.
  • President Bassirou Diomaye Faye personally greeted the squad upon their return, praising their “heroic” performance and exemplary conduct during the tournament.
  • Thousands of jubilant fans celebrated the team's arrival, with a street parade and reception at the presidential palace taking place on Tuesday.
  • FIFA president Gianni Infantino and the Confederation of African Football deemed the team's walk-off “unacceptable”, despite Senegal's eventual triumph after extra time.

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