Awards for the "Lions of Teranga"
All team members received 75 million CFA francs (approximately 115,000 euros) and plots of land measuring 1,500 m² on the prestigious Petit-Côte coastline, located south of Dakar. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye emphasized the significance of these awards in both a sporting and social context.
Awards for all participants
Not only the players but also representatives of the Senegal Football Federation and members of the national delegation were awarded financial bonuses and land plots. Additionally, the Ministry of Sports received 305 million CFA francs to highlight the institutional importance of this achievement.
At the official ceremony in the Presidential Palace, head coach Pape Tiago and the entire team received the National Lion Order in the rank of Commanders, which is the highest state award in Senegal for individuals who have made a significant impact in the country’s history.
Celebratory events in Dakar
Thousands of fans greeted the heroes on the streets of Dakar during a parade on an open-top bus. Players, including Sadio Mane, traveled through the city’s famous neighborhoods, where fans sang, danced, and played traditional drums. Earlier, President Faye welcomed the team at the airport, expressing admiration for the players' "heroism" and "beautiful football."
Epic AFCON final
Senegal claimed the title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Morocco in Rabat. In stoppage time, the team nearly left the field after a controversial penalty decision, but Sadio Mane convinced his teammates to continue playing. Goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved the penalty kick, and in extra time, Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal, bringing Senegal its second AFCON title in history.
