Idrissa Gueye's Proposal to Return Medals to Morocco
In a surprising turn of events, Idrissa Gueye, a midfielder for the Senegalese national team, has expressed his willingness to return the medals awarded to Senegal after their victory in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This proposition comes in light of the ongoing tensions between Senegal and Morocco, following the controversial decision that awarded Morocco the title on paper despite Senegal winning the final match on the field. Gueye stated that he would be personally committed to collecting the medals and potentially returning them to Morocco if it could alleviate the strain between the two nations.
During an interview with Canal+, following Everton's recent 3-0 victory over Chelsea in the English Premier League, Gueye remarked, "This situation is ridiculous. Football matches are decided on the field, which is what we did in Morocco. We did what was necessary on the pitch and won that game. We deserve to be African champions; we are champions in our eyes! Titles are earned on the field, not in offices." His statements reflect the deep-seated emotions surrounding the recent AFCON final held in Rabat on January 18, where Senegal triumphed over Morocco 1-0 after extra time.
The Aftermath of the AFCON Final
Two months after the final, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced that Senegal was considered to have withdrawn from the final, officially recording a 3-0 victory for Morocco. This unexpected announcement led the Senegalese Football Federation to declare its intention to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), the highest authority in sports law based in Lausanne. Gueye, however, voiced his opinion that if it were up to him, he would advise the federation against pursuing an appeal.
The final match was marred by controversy, with several Senegalese players leaving the pitch in protest against a penalty awarded to Morocco in stoppage time, following a review by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) when the match was still scoreless. Play was halted for fifteen minutes amidst chaos and tension, with Senegalese fans throwing objects and attempting to storm the field. Although Moroccan player Ibrahim Dias missed the penalty, Senegal scored the decisive goal through Pape Gueye in extra time, sealing their victory.
As reported by hespress.com.
