By Shaffie A Mtambo
DAKAR-(MaraviPost)-A national holiday has been declared in Senegal following the country’s dramatic victory in the 2025, Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), a decision announced by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye to allow citizens to celebrate the achievement of the national football team.
The President declared Monday, 19 January a public holiday in honour of the Teranga Lions, who were crowned African champions after defeating hosts Morocco in a tense and dramatic final.
The AFCON final was played on Sunday in Morocco, where thousands of fans packed the stadium while millions more followed the match across the continent and beyond.
The game ended goalless after 90 minutes, with both Senegal and Morocco failing to break the deadlock despite several chances at both ends.
Drama unfolded in extra time when Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal, sending Senegalese fans into wild celebrations and breaking Moroccan hearts on home soil.
The match was not without controversy, as Senegal players briefly protested on the pitch over officiating decisions late in regulation time, adding tension to an already heated final.
Morocco, who hosted the tournament, pushed hard for an equaliser after conceding, but Senegal’s defence held firm to secure the famous victory.
With the win, Senegal claimed their second AFCON title, having previously lifted the trophy in 2021, further cementing their status as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.
President Faye praised the team’s resilience and unity, describing the victory as a moment of national pride that brought together Senegalese people at home and abroad.
Across Senegal, celebrations erupted in streets, homes and public squares, with fans waving national flags, singing and dancing long into the night.
In the third place playoff match, Nigeria finished third after defeating Egypt, rounding off an exciting and competitive AFCON tournament.
