President Bassirou Faye of Senegal has declared Monday a paid public holiday across the country to celebrate the national football team’s triumph at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The announcement follows Senegal’s 1-0 victory over host nation Morocco in the AFCON final on Sunday in Rabat.
Faye directed that public sector workers receive full pay for the day to allow citizens to celebrate the achievement.
“This Monday will be considered a paid public holiday. Senegalese people will celebrate. Then we must welcome the Lions properly and congratulate them,” he said Sunday night.
In addition, he offered the new African champions a special reward for their accomplishment.
Senegal’s Teranga Lions won the tournament after midfielder Pape Gueye scored the winning goal in extra time, giving the country its second AFCON victory.
The encounter, played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, was marred by controversy, lengthy stoppages, and a brief walk-off by Senegalese players following a late penalty granted to Morocco after a VAR review.
Incensed by the decision, Senegal’s head coach, Pape Thiaw, took his players off the field in protest, resulting in chaotic scenes with security intervention to restore order.
Following a delay, the Senegalese team returned. Morocco’s penalty was taken but saved by goalie Édouard Mendy, forcing the game into overtime.
Senegal’s second AFCON championship in four years was secured after midfielder Pape Gueye scored the game-winning goal in the fourth minute of extra time.
