Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has sparked mixed reactions after updating his social media profile to include the AFCON trophy behind him.
The move comes amid a heated dispute with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title.
Observers interpreted the profile update as a bold statement to CAF. A journalist noted that the president “casually updated his social profile pictures to include the AFCON trophy behind him,” while some social media users suggested it symbolically says, “come and get it if you can,” in Wolof.
The dispute began after Senegal defeated Morocco 1–0 in extra time during the AFCON final. However, CAF later ruled that Senegal briefly walked off the pitch during the match, which they said violated tournament rules.
Following this decision, CAF awarded the title to Morocco with a 3–0 forfeit scoreline and asked Senegal to return the trophy. Senegal’s football federation rejected the ruling, calling it unfair and insisting that their victory on the field should be recognized.
Senegal has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), stating that the trophy will remain in the country until the court issues its final decision.
Officials have also raised concerns over CAF’s handling of the matter, warning that such decisions could undermine trust in African football governance.
Reactions to the president’s move have been divided. Supporters praised it as a show of national pride and a firm defense of Senegal’s achievement, while critics argued that the gesture could complicate dialogue with CAF. Regardless, the image has become a focal point in the ongoing debate over the trophy’s rightful home
As Senegal awaits the CAS ruling, the president’s profile picture has emerged as a symbol of the country’s determination to defend its claim.
The controversy continues to dominate conversations among football fans, sports analysts, and social media users across the continent.
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