Africa-Press. Senegal national team coach Aliou Cissé apologized for his behavior during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, after asking his players to leave the field in protest of the penalty awarded to Morocco during added time, when the score was still tied. However, he also justified his actions.
Cissé said in a message to football fans:
“I apologize if I caused any harm to anyone, but football enthusiasts know well that emotion is an inseparable part of this sport.”
He shared photos on his Instagram account of leading the Lions of Teranga to the African title, commenting:
“For Senegal, my heart, soul, and mind are rooted in this beautiful country that has given me everything, and for it, I will do the impossible.”
Regarding his actions on Sunday night during the final, he added:
“We experienced an exceptional tournament with outstanding organization, but unfortunately, it ended dramatically. My intention was never to go against the principles of the game I love; I was only trying to protect my players against injustice.”
He continued:
“What some may see as a rule violation was in fact just an emotional reaction to the biased situation we faced. After consultation, we decided to resume the match and move forward to win this cup for you.”
The coach thanked Senegal’s President Macky Sall, the Ministry of Sports, and the Football Federation for providing the best conditions and support for the team, as well as the Senegalese fans who supported the team from the beginning to the end of the tournament.
He concluded his message by saying:
“None of this would have been possible without my family: my mother who passed away, my father, my wife, and my children who give me extra motivation. And finally, to my men, these 28 warriors who gave their sweat, blood, and soul for their country: it is an honor for me to lead you. You are not just legends, but exceptional individuals.”
