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Senegal Rewards AFCON Champions With Cash and Coastal Land
Glory came with more than a trophy. After winning AFCON, Senegal’s heroes received historic rewards that sparked nationwide celebration.
Champions’ rewards for the Lions of Teranga
Winning the Africa Cup of Nations delivered more than continental glory for Senegal. It also brought unprecedented rewards for the players who lifted the trophy in Morocco. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye announced major financial and property incentives for the champions, triggering scenes of celebration across the country.
Each player received 75 million CFA francs, equivalent to around €115,000, along with a 1,500-square-meter plot of land in the Petite-Côte, one of Senegal’s most desirable coastal areas south of Dakar. A reward that underlines the sporting, social, and symbolic impact of the title.
Recognition beyond financial bonuses
The rewards extended beyond the squad itself. President Faye also confirmed smaller financial bonuses and land allocations for officials of the Senegalese Football Federation, as well as members of the national delegation at AFCON. In addition, 305 million CFA francs were allocated to the Ministry of Sports, reinforcing the institutional importance of the triumph.
In a formal ceremony at the Presidential Palace, head coach Pape Thiaw and the entire squad were awarded the rank of Commanders of the National Order of the Lion, the country’s highest national honor. A distinction reserved for figures who shape Senegalese history.
Dakar celebrates its heroes
The celebrations continued on the streets of Dakar, where thousands of fans welcomed the champions in a massive open-top bus parade. Surrounded by national colors, Sadio Mané and his teammates toured iconic areas such as Patte d’Oie, as supporters sang, danced, and beat traditional drums.
President Faye had already greeted the team at the airport earlier, praising their “heroism” and the “beautiful football” displayed throughout the tournament. The bond between the team and the nation was unmistakable.
A final remembered for drama and triumph
Senegal sealed the title with a tense 1–0 victory over Morocco in Rabat, in a final that nearly descended into chaos. In stoppage time, Senegal briefly threatened to walk off the pitch following a controversial penalty decision.
It was Sadio Mané who convinced his teammates to return. Brahim Díaz attempted a Panenka penalty that was saved by Édouard Mendy, and in extra time Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal. A night that kept Africa — and fans worldwide — on edge, ending with Senegal lifting the second AFCON trophy in its history.
