Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has insisted that titles are decided on the pitch, following the controversial decision to strip his team of their Africa Cup of Nations crown and award it to Morocco.
Speaking at a press conference in Paris ahead of Senegal’s friendly against Peru, Thiaw made it clear that his focus remains on football, not off-field decisions. He stressed that, in his view, Senegal are still the rightful champions based on their performance.
“We know what we achieved on the pitch,” he said. “Trophies are won through hard work and results, not distractions.”
The friendly match against Peru will be Senegal’s first game since the dramatic AFCON final in Rabat on January 18. Senegal had originally won the match 1-0, thanks to an extra-time goal from Pape Gueye, but the game was overshadowed by chaos late in normal time.
Players briefly walked off the pitch in protest after a penalty was awarded to Morocco, while some fans attempted to invade the field. After a delay, the match resumed, the penalty was missed, and Senegal went on to secure victory.
However, the Confederation of African Football later ruled that Senegal breached tournament regulations by leaving the pitch, overturning the result and awarding Morocco a 3-0 win.
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Senegal have since appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, maintaining that their victory was earned fairly.
Team captain Idrissa Gana Gueye also backed the squad’s stance, saying the players gave everything to win and deserved the title. He added that while the team respects the process, nothing can take away the pride and emotions from their achievement.
As preparations continue for the upcoming World Cup, where Senegal will face France, Norway, and another playoff winner, Thiaw says the team remains focused on moving forward and proving themselves again—this time beyond any doubt.
