Senegal’s Trophy Triumph Parade: AFCON Glory Hits the Gabon Friendly Stage
31 March 2026
Senegal's AFCON Triumph Celebration on Parisian Ground
Senegal's players proudly presented the Africa Cup of Nations trophy to cheering fans ahead of their friendly against Gabon, the first home appearance since their January title win.
The celebration drew attention as the trophy was shown before the Stade de France crowd in Paris during last weekend’s friendly with Peru, a 2-0 victory for the Lions of Teranga.
On March 17, CAF’s appeals committee decided to strip Senegal of that win, citing Articles 82 and 84, which govern what happens if a team refuses to play or leaves the pitch. The Senegal Football Federation has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport as the case heads toward a final ruling.
The players kept the trophy close and even turned toward the Gabon supporters in attendance, who greeted the gesture with a salute and a smile.
The celebrations continued after the federation noted that the celebrations would persist, with a plan to parade the trophy again on March 31 ahead of the last match of the window.
A video style moment did not dampen spirits, and the trophy remained in the spotlight as the football family awaited the final verdict.
Punchline time: The trophy has more frequent flyer miles than most players, always on the move and never late for a victory lap. Another line: If celebrations were a sport, Senegal would top the podium with gold, confetti, and a mic stand for the national anthem remix.
