By Angu Lesley
Senegal captain Idrissa Gana Gueye has firmly rejected claims that players from the national team suffered food poisoning during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing the allegations as “completely unfounded”.
Speaking after Senegal’s 1–0 victory over hosts Morocco in the final, the Everton midfielder said the team’s nutrition and welfare were subject to strict monitoring throughout the tournament.
Speculation had emerged following the final that several Senegalese players may have been affected by food-related illness during their stay in Morocco, potentially impacting their physical condition. Gueye, however, moved quickly to quash the rumours.
The technical and medical staff paid very close attention to our nutrition from the beginning to the end of the competition,” he told Senegalese media. “Everything was organised and carefully controlled.”
Gueye explained that the Senegalese delegation travelled with a specialised nutrition team and employed a private chef responsible for preparing meals according to precise dietary standards. He said this ensured the players received balanced and consistent nutrition throughout the tournament.
The 35-year-old midfielder added that the squad ate normally and that no collective health issues were reported at any point, effectively ruling out the possibility of food poisoning.
His comments appear to be a response to remarks made by teammate Ismail Jakobs after the final. Jakobs had suggested that some players may have experienced discomfort linked to food intake, while acknowledging that no confirmed evidence existed.
Gueye’s statement now brings clarity to the situation, dismissing speculation that off-field conditions contributed to any physical difficulties faced by the team.
Senegal were crowned African champions after defeating Morocco 1–0 in the final played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat on Sunday, securing their place at the top of African football once again.
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