Senegalese granted public holiday to celebrate AFCON 2025 title

Senegal eagerly awaited the return of its champions on Monday, with streets decked out in banners and flags and the population given a public holiday following the country's thrilling Africa Cup of Nations win over Morocco.

After a night of jubilation in Dakar, the morning newspapers were ebullient: "Heroic!" Le Soleil wrote as its single-word headline, while L'Observateur simply called the triumph "Unforgettable."

Senegal won the Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday as Pape Gueye's extra-time winner sunk hosts Morocco 1-0 after a dramatic final that saw the eventual champions storm off the pitch late in the game.

"The Lions experienced every emotion", Le Soleil wrote.

National celebrations

The capital, its suburbs and multiple other cities erupted with vuvuzela horns, honking, fireworks and celebratory dancing as hundreds of thousands of fans took to the streets.

The win marks Senegal's second title, after their AFCON 2021 victory over Egypt in Cameroon. It was the team's third final in just the last four editions.

The Lions are believed to be returning to Dakar on Monday, although no official confirmation has been given.

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye is additionally expected to host them at the presidential palace in the coming days, after calling the players "patriots" and labelling the final a "victory for all Senegalese people."