Senegal Parades with Africa Cup at Stade de France Despite Title Dispute

The Senegalese national team paraded with the Africa Cup of Nations trophy at the Stade de France in Paris, ahead of their friendly match against Peru. This occurred despite the Confederation of African Football (CAF) decision to strip Senegal of the title and award it to Morocco.

Kalidou Koulibaly, holding the trophy, led the team onto the field, accompanied by a mini-concert by Youssou N'Dour. The trophy was passed around, while thousands of Senegalese fans, along with Peruvian supporters, gathered at the stadium.

The CAF justified the removal of the title by citing articles of the AFCON regulations regarding refusal to participate in a match or abandonment of the field. The Senegalese Football Federation has appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Outside the stadium, approximately 200 Senegalese fans marched from the Basilica of Saint-Denis to the Stade de France, accompanied by traditional drums. Balli Bagayoko, the mayor of Saint-Denis, participated in the procession, expressing her support for the team.

Source: APE