By Ayomide Otitoju
Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has declared Monday a paid public holiday nationwide to celebrate Senegal’s victory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The announcement followed the Teranga Lions’ 1–0 victory over host nation Morocco in the AFCON final played on Sunday, January 18, 2026, in Rabat. The president approved the public holiday with full pay for public sector workers to enable citizens to take part in nationwide celebrations.
Senegal secured the title after defeating Morocco in extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, clinching the continental crown in a dramatic final marked by controversy, lengthy stoppages and brief walkouts by players.
The match was disrupted late in regulation time after a disputed penalty was awarded to Morocco following a VAR review for a challenge on Brahim Diaz, with the scoreline at 0–0. The decision sparked protests from Senegalese players, who surrounded the referee, leading to a prolonged stoppage of play. Some Senegal players briefly walked off the pitch in protest, while disturbances were also reported in the stands involving sections of Senegalese supporters and Moroccan security personnel.
Despite the turmoil, Senegal went on to score the decisive goal in extra time to seal the victory.
In the aftermath of the final, world football governing body FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) condemned the “unacceptable scenes” that overshadowed the match. CAF, in a statement issued on Monday, said it would take “appropriate action” against those found culpable.
“The Confederation Africaine de Football (CAF) condemns the unacceptable behaviour from some players and officials during the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Final between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat,” the statement read.
CAF added that it is reviewing all available footage and will refer the matter to its disciplinary bodies, reiterating its stance against any conduct that undermines match officials or organisers.
