SAINT-DENIS, France – Senegal defeated Peru 2-0 in a friendly match at the Stade de France on Saturday, a contest imbued with significance beyond the scoreline. The match served as a platform for the Lions of Teranga to reaffirm their claim to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, despite a controversial decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to award the championship to Morocco.
The victory, secured by goals from Nicolas Jackson and Ibrahima Sarr, was celebrated by a large contingent of Senegalese fans who traveled to Saint-Denis. Prior to kickoff, the team proudly displayed the trophy they believe is rightfully theirs, a powerful visual statement in the face of ongoing dispute. The match itself, whereas a friendly, carried the weight of national pride and a determination to assert their sporting achievement.
However, the focus quickly shifted to the aftermath of the game, specifically the comments made by Senegalese goalkeeper Édouard Mendy. The Al-Ahli shot-stopper delivered a scathing critique of CAF’s handling of the CAN 2025 final, expressing deep frustration and unwavering support for his nation’s position. Mendy’s words reflect a growing sense of injustice within Senegal, fueled by what many perceive as a flawed and politically motivated decision.
“We have incomprehension, with this instance of CAF, we are used to it, unfortunately we have an instance that is moving slower than football,” Mendy stated, as reported by Foot Mercato. “People talk about winners or losers, I think the only loser is football and Africa, and the only responsible party is CAF.”
Mendy’s comments underscore the deep-seated resentment felt by many Senegalese players and fans. The CAF’s decision to overturn the on-field result – Senegal won the final against Morocco – has sparked a legal battle and ignited a national debate about fairness and integrity in African football. The CAF initially announced Senegal as champions, then reversed course, citing irregularities during the match. The decision has been met with widespread condemnation, with many questioning the transparency and impartiality of the process.
The goalkeeper didn’t stop there, adding a poignant message on his Instagram story: “The memory of a people cannot be corrected. We will continue to defend what we have won. Not out of arrogance, but out of respect for the game and the truth.” This statement, widely circulated on social media, encapsulates the unwavering belief within Senegal that they are the rightful champions of Africa.
Beyond the controversy, Senegal’s performance against Peru demonstrated their continued strength and resilience. Pape Thiaw, the Senegal national team manager, praised the team’s victory and the passionate support of the Senegalese diaspora in France. “It’s not easy to fill the Stade de France when you’re not playing against France,” Thiaw noted, acknowledging the significance of the turnout. He also expressed his solidarity with the 18 Senegalese supporters who were arrested in Morocco following the CAN final, stating, “We are with them, we will not abandon them, we will fight for them to return to their families.”
The win over Peru serves as a symbolic victory for Senegal, a demonstration of their quality on the pitch and their determination to fight for what they believe is just. While the legal battle with CAF continues, the Lions of Teranga have made it clear that they will not relinquish their claim to the title without a fight. The team’s display of unity and defiance, coupled with Mendy’s outspoken criticism, sends a clear message to the African football governing body: Senegal will not be silenced.
Senegal’s next challenge will be a crucial match against Colombia on Sunday, March 30th, at the Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, with kickoff scheduled for 9 PM ET (0100 UTC March 31st). This friendly will provide another opportunity for the Lions of Teranga to showcase their talent and continue their preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, where they will face France in their opening match in June. Fans can follow updates and official news on the Senegal Football Federation’s website and social media channels.
The situation remains fluid, and the outcome of the legal dispute with CAF is uncertain. However, one thing is clear: the Senegalese people are united in their belief that their team deserves to be recognized as the champions of Africa, and they will continue to fight for that recognition with unwavering determination.
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