'Not The Africa We Believe...'! Sadio Mane Slams CAF's Absurd Decision To Strip Senegal Of AFCON Crown

Last Updated:March 18, 2026, 18:08 IST

Senegal skipper Mane, who rallied the side back out onto the field to turn things around in the summit clash, vented his frustration after CAF's decision.

In an astounding decision by the Confederation of African Football, Senegal were stripped of their 2026 African Cup of Nations title for walking off the pitch during the final in Rabat in January, before eventually returning to the field of play to go on and register a 1-0 win over hosts Morocco. As a result, Morocco were named champions of the continent in a controversial decision by the governing body.

Senegal skipper Sadio Mane, who rallied the side back out onto the field to turn things around in the summit clash, vented his frustration after CAF’s decision.

“What happened has gone too far. This is not the football we fight for, not the Africa we believe in."

“There is too much corruption in our game, and it’s killing the passion of millions of fans across the continent. Players give everything on the pitch, but decisions off it are deciding matches and trophies."

“I’m deeply disappointed not just for Senegal, but for African football as a whole. We deserve better. The fans deserve fairness, transparency, and respect," he added.

During the final of the continental competition, Senegal’s players left the field for 15 minutes in stoppage time to protest a penalty awarded to Morocco under the instructions of head coach Pape Thiaw, which also led fans to attempt to storm the field.

However, when play resumed, Morocco’s forward Brahim Diaz took the penalty with a Panenka, which was saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Nevertheless, Senegal scored the only goal in extra time.

Article 28 of the tournament regulations states that if a team withdraws from the competition, does not report for a match, refuses to play, or leaves the ground before the regular end of the match without the referee’s authorization, it shall be considered the loser and will be eliminated from the current competition.

News sports football 'Not The Africa We Believe...'! Sadio Mane Slams CAF's Absurd Decision To Strip Senegal Of AFCON Crown

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