After scoring in the CAN 2025 final between Sénégal and Maroc, Pape Gueye remains adamant that he is an African champion. Despite the CAF appeal jury’s decision to strip his team of the title, the midfielder expressed his defiance during a recent interview.
Pape Gueye has no intention of surrendering his winner’s medal. Although Sénégal saw their Africa Cup of Nations title revoked in March following their 1-0 extra-time victory on the pitch last January, the Villarreal player insists he still feels like a champion.
“We are the kings of Africa, it is as simple as that,” the former OM player declared. He argued that the entire world witnessed their triumph on the field. He questioned why the final result was being overturned, noting that even when a penalty was awarded against them, the Maroc players were eager to take it rather than stop the game. “The medals are at our homes, and that is where they will stay,” he added.
The match was defined by late-game drama, including a disallowed goal for Sénégal and a controversial penalty granted to Maroc. These events led the Lions of Teranga to briefly exit the pitch in protest. Upon their return, Brahim Diaz failed to convert the penalty, attempting a panenka that missed the mark.
Sénégal brings the dispute to the CAS
It was during the ensuing extra time that Pape Gueye netted the winning goal. While his teammate Idrissa Gueye previously suggested he might return his medal to help calm the situation, Pape clarified those remarks. “That was purely ironic,” he explained. “I told him personally that I am not prepared to give mine back. Everyone knows Sénégal won that cup.”
In late March, the Sénégal national team even showcased the trophy during a friendly match held at the Stade de France. Following the Confederation of African Football (CAF) ruling, the Sénégal Football Federation officially lodged an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Currently, the CAS has not provided a specific timeline for its final verdict. The upcoming decision from this body will serve as the definitive conclusion to this legal saga, with no further options for appeal available to either nation.