Everton Forward Iliman Ndiaye Stands by Senegal’s AFCON Claim
Iliman Ndiaye has insisted Senegal will not allow the controversy surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final to derail their preparations for the 2026 World Cup, declaring the Teranga Lions still regard themselves as Africa’s rightful champions.
The decision came after CAF ruled Senegal breached tournament regulations when several players and staff briefly walked off the pitch in protest following a late penalty awarded to the hosts.
Senegal’s federation has since appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with the case still unresolved.
“Obviously, in our eyes and many other people’s eyes, we are the champions of Africa,” Ndiaye told BBC.
“Whatever their decisions will [be], it doesn’t disturb us.”
“The same focus and hunger and determination that we had going into the Afcon, we’re going to do the same going into the World Cup. It’s another trophy on the line and nothing’s going to distract us.”
Senegal have been drawn alongside France, Norway and Iraq in Group I of the 2026 World Cup, which will be staged across Canada, Mexico and the United States from 11 June to 19 July.
The AFCON final descended into chaos deep into stoppage time after referee Jean‑Jacques Ndala ruled out a Senegal goal before awarding Morocco a penalty following a VAR review.
Ndiaye, who had already been substituted, said Senegal’s reaction was fuelled by frustration.
“It was just a bit of unfairness that happened for us,” the Everton forward said.
“That’s what we thought on the pitch with the goal being disallowed and then the penalty, which we don’t think was a penalty, in the space of a short time.”
“Emotions were really high and you do things straight away.”
The penalty was eventually taken after a delay of around 17 minutes, but Brahim Diaz saw his Panenka attempt saved by Edouard Mendy before Pape Gueye scored the winner in extra time.
Ndiaye revealed that Sadio Mane and coach Pape Thiaw played key roles in persuading players to return to the pitch.
“The manager [Pape Thiaw] and the players that stayed outside on the pitch told everyone that went inside to come back to the pitch and finish the game,” he explained.
Despite standing by Senegal’s position, Ndiaye admitted the dispute has damaged the image of African football.
“In Africa we have to stay together, be strong and do everything in our power to lift up African football,” he said.
“It wasn’t a great look so I just hope they put it right.”
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