Iliman Ndiaye has boldly maintained that Senegal national football team remain Africa’s rightful champions, despite CAF’s decision to strip them of the 2025 AFCON title.
The forward made the statement after scoring against Chelsea FC on Saturday, using the moment to send a clear message amid the ongoing controversy.
“We are champions of Africa,” Ndiaye declared after the match, reinforcing the stance held by many within the Senegal camp.
The remarks come in response to a ruling by the Confederation of African Football Appeals Board, which overturned Senegal’s final victory over Morocco national football team. The decision cited a 17-minute walk-off protest during the match and awarded Morocco a 3-0 win by forfeit.
Despite the ruling, Senegal have rejected the outcome and are set to challenge it at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Even Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has reportedly distanced himself from the title, insisting it was not won on the pitch.
Ndiaye’s comments underline the defiance within the Senegal squad and among their supporters, as the battle over the 2025 AFCON crown now heads toward a final verdict at CAS.
