Senegal's Triumph: A Global Celebration of AFCON Victory

Mon Jan 19 2026 18:46:16 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Senegal fans worldwide rejoice as the national team wins the Africa Cup of Nations, leading to celebrations and a declared public holiday in Senegal.

Following Senegal's historic victory over Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations final, fans across the globe celebrated the win. Senegal's President declared a public holiday in honor of the team's triumph. With scenes of jubilation from Dakar to New York, fans expressed their joy and gratitude towards the players, particularly Sadio Mané, celebrating a long-awaited victory that unites the nation in pride.

Senegal's President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has declared Monday a public holiday after the national team won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), beating tournament hosts Morocco 1-0 in a dramatic final on Sunday.

A disallowed goal, players walking off the pitch, and a saved penalty made it a tense night in the stadium in the Moroccan capital, Rabat.

In Senegal's capital, Dakar, thousands of supporters gathered at an outdoor screen at the iconic African Renaissance Monument. As the match unfolded, the atmosphere was electric, with emotions running high.

The moment Morocco's Brahim Diaz stepped up to take the penalty that could have secured the trophy for his country was unbearable for many Senegalese fans. His miss followed by Senegal's goal in extra time sent the supporters into ecstasy.

Mohamed Diop, a jubilant fan, expressed, What just happened is divine... a scenario as if it were a Netflix series is crazy. The celebrations that erupted in Dakar were mirrored by Senegalese communities worldwide, from the streets of Milan to the Château Rouge area in Paris, known as Little Africa.

As revelers poured into the streets of Dakar to celebrate, fans abroad joined in at parties, such as one hosted by New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The overwhelming sentiment was gratitude towards the team, especially Sadio Mané, for their commendable performance.

In contrast, Moroccan fans faced devastation, mourning what could have been a historic win for their national team. One supporter remarked, Maybe next time. We have good players. Now we should get back to work so we can win in 2027.

This AFCON victory marks a significant milestone for Senegalese football, solidifying their place in continental history and uniting fans across the globe in shared joy.