Yéhvann diouf reflects on Senegal’s can victory and controversial moments

Senegal claims CAN crown: Yéhvann Diouf shares his perspective

As the excitement of OM-Nice settles this Sunday evening, former goalkeeper Yéhvann Diouf reflects on his eventful season with L’Équipe. The Senegalese international, who often found himself on the bench, experienced a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the campaign, culminating in the dramatic African Cup of Nations final against Morocco.

«The match was incredible,» admits Diouf, who previously played for Reims. «Like many, I would have preferred a different outcome—not just the victory, but the entire context. There were so many issues that tarnished the reputation of the federations, the tournament, and the continent. Ultimately, what matters is that the game reached its conclusion and Senegal emerged victorious.»

Three months after Senegal’s triumph in the African Cup of Nations final, Yéhvann Diouf recounts his experience, including the controversial incident that unfolded post-match.

Diouf’s focus remains on the Senegalese national team’s hard-fought win, sealed by Pape Gueye’s decisive goal in extra time (1-0). The post-match saga, involving a forfeit victory awarded to Morocco by the CAF—now under review by the Court of Arbitration for Sport—is left unaddressed in his narrative.

Behind the scenes of the controversial finale

As a player for Nice, Diouf witnessed firsthand some of the incidents that followed the final whistle, including a particularly contentious moment involving a towel. His quick thinking, Diouf reveals, inadvertently became a talking point.

«I only realized the significance when we returned to the locker room,» he explains. «People kept thanking me. All I can say is that if it helped Édouard (Mendy) perform at his best, I’m glad. But it shouldn’t have happened. While it may seem amusing or add to the folklore, it crossed a line—my safety was compromised.»

Diouf’s reflections shed light on the emotional highs and off-field challenges that defined Senegal’s CAN journey, highlighting the resilience of a team that fought not just on the pitch, but in the face of adversity.