By Macdella Eyong Bessong
Journalist kick442.com – Cameroon
Senegal’s Teranga Lions, champions of the 2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations, were given a hero’s welcome on their return home following their continental triumph.
The team, led by captain Kalidou Koulibaly and star forward Sadio Mané, arrived in Dakar on a special flight on the evening of Monday, 19 January 2026, touching down at Blaise Diagne International Airport with the AFCON trophy.
African Champions welcomed in Dakar
They were received by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who congratulated the players and technical staff for their outstanding campaign and for adding a second star to Senegal’s jersey. Also present were Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and several senior government officials.
Outside the airport, thousands of supporters dressed in the national colours gathered to celebrate the champions. Fans waved Senegalese flags, sang, danced and chanted as the players acknowledged the jubilant crowd.
Head coach Pape Thiaw and his squad are continuing the celebrations on Tuesday, 20 January, with an open-top parade through the streets of Dakar, before a formal reception later in the day at the presidential palace.
African Champions welcomed in Dakar
Senegal clinched the AFCON title in Rabat on Sunday, 18 January, defeating hosts Morocco 1-0 after extra time. The final was a tense and dramatic affair, decided by Pape Gueye’s extra-time winner following a chaotic climax.
Now two-time African champions, the Teranga Lions’ success has resonated far beyond the pitch. The team’s journey to the title captured the imagination of the nation, with the president and government figures closely following their progress, underlining the unity, pride and growing investment in Senegalese football.
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