In a scene that sparked widespread controversy, the Senegal national team showcased the Africa Cup of Nations trophy at the Stade de France, despite the recent decision by the Confederation of African Football to strip them of the title.

This display came before a friendly match between the Lions of Teranga and Peru, in a move considered a clear challenge to the official decision.

The Senegalese team, which won the final against Morocco in January, left the field for a period in protest of a controversial refereeing decision before returning to secure the victory. However, the African Confederation deemed this action as a "withdrawal," reversing the result to a forfeit loss (3-0) and awarding the title to Morocco.

Nevertheless, the Senegalese players and their coaching staff insisted that they were the true champions, with captain Kalidou Koulibaly lifting the trophy and taking a victory lap among the fans, while coach Pape Thiaw asserted that "championships are decided on the field, not in the offices."

The case has not been closed yet, as the Senegalese Federation has filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport in an attempt to officially reclaim the title. While Morocco considers the issue resolved, Senegal continues to assert its rights, making this case one of the most controversial crises in the modern history of African football.