Senegal Declares National Holiday After AFCON Victory

Millions of Senegalese workers woke up Monday to an unexpected gift: a paid national holiday to celebrate their country's soccer heroes.

President Bassirou Faye made the announcement Sunday night, just hours after Senegal's national team defeated Morocco 1-0 in the Africa Cup of Nations final. "Senegalese people will celebrate," Faye declared. "Then we must welcome the Lions properly and congratulate them."

The championship game at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat turned into one of the most dramatic finals in recent African soccer history. Midfielder Pape Gueye scored the winning goal in the fourth minute of extra time, sending celebrations erupting across Senegal.

But the path to victory took an unexpected turn. Late in regulation, Morocco earned a penalty after a video review. Senegal's coach, Pape Thiaw, led his players off the field in protest, causing chaotic scenes that required security intervention to restore order.

The team eventually returned to finish the match. Goalkeeper Édouard Mendy saved Morocco's penalty attempt, keeping the game level and pushing it into extra time where Gueye sealed Senegal's triumph.

President Faye promised special rewards for the team beyond the national holiday. Public sector workers across the country received full pay for their day off, allowing families to gather and celebrate together.

The Ripple Effect

This victory marks Senegal's second AFCON title in four years, cementing the small West African nation's status as a continental soccer powerhouse. The national holiday reflects how deeply soccer connects communities across Senegal, giving people from all backgrounds a shared moment of pride.

The celebration also showcases how sports can unite entire nations. From Dakar to the smallest villages, Senegalese citizens paused their daily routines to honor their team's achievement together.

A single goal in extra time gave an entire nation a reason to celebrate as one.