Joy and a Day Off – Celebrations Erupt as Senegal Secures AFCON Victory

Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has announced a public holiday for Monday, following the thrilling victory of the national football team in the Africa Cup of Nations. The team clinched the championship by defeating host nation Morocco with a score of 1-0 in a nail-biting final held on Sunday.

Tensions and Triumphs in Rabat

The match was filled with dramatic moments, including a disallowed goal, players exiting the field, and a crucial saved penalty, which kept onlookers on the edge of their seats at the stadium in Rabat, Morocco’s capital.

A Celebratory Atmosphere in Dakar

In Dakar, Senegal’s vibrant capital, fans gathered in large numbers at the foot of the iconic African Renaissance Monument, anxiously watching the match on a massive outdoor screen. The energy was palpable, as the anxiety of the game took its toll on many supporters.

Breathtaking Moments during the Final

Morocco’s Brahim Diaz facing a penalty, which could have secured the AFCON trophy for Morocco for the first time in five decades, was a moment of extreme tension. The atmosphere was unbearable for Senegal supporters, but as Diaz missed the penalty and Senegal scored in the extra time, exhilaration erupted in Dakar.

Reactions from the Streets of Dakar

“What just occurred is extraordinary… it felt like a scene from a Netflix series; it’s unbelievable,” expressed fan Mohammed Diop in remarks captured by the Reuters news agency.

The Upset and Hope for Morocco

Conversely, there was heartbreak for Moroccan fans at a viewing event in the city of Sale. Despite the disappointment, one fan reassured, “Maybe next time. We have quality players. It’s time to redouble our efforts for a triumph in 2027.”

Global Celebrations

The celebration spirit was contagious as Senegalese fans in Eindhoven, Netherlands, reacted in shock to Diaz’s penalty miss. But once the whistle signifying victory blew in Dakar, the jubilation began.

Across the globe, Senegalese supporters took to the streets, with visible excitement in cities such as Milan and Paris, where festivities flourished in Little Africa—a neighborhood in Paris. Madrid was no exception, with fans enjoying the match in various restaurants across the Lavapies district.

In New York, Senegalese supporters gathered for a watch party hosted by the city’s new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, joining in on the celebration.

Final Thoughts from the Streets

“We truly needed this victory. This team has shown tremendous bravery and dedication. We are deeply grateful to Sadio Mané; he poured his heart into this,” remarked supporter Modou Yacine Diop, sharing sentiments of pride and gratitude.

Through thick and thin, the AFCON triumph has united Senegalese people worldwide, showcasing the power of sports to bring joy and foster community, leaving a mark for years to come.