Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye has admitted that his team made a mistake by walking off the pitch during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Morocco, following a controversial late penalty decision.
Gueye made the admission in an interview on French television on Sunday, days after Senegal edged Morocco 1–0 after extra time to win the AFCON title in Rabat.
Morocco were awarded a late penalty during regulation time, a decision that sparked anger among Senegal players and led to a walk-off by the eventual champions, causing a delay of about 20 minutes.
‘We Realised Our Mistake’ — Gueye
After Senegal returned to the pitch, Brahim Diaz missed the penalty, before Gueye went on to score the winning goal in extra time.
“We are only human. We realised our mistake and came back out,” said the 26-year-old midfielder.
“Anyone can make a mistake,” he added.
Gueye Hails Sadio Mane’s Leadership
Gueye praised former Liverpool star Sadio Mane for staying on the pitch and convincing his teammates to return for the penalty kick.
“He found the right thing to say at the right moment, and it shows just how important he is to us,” Gueye said.
“We owe him a big thank you.”
Senegal had earlier been furious after a goal was ruled out for what they believed was a soft foul in the build-up.
Surprise Over Panenka Penalty Miss
Gueye also expressed surprise at Brahim Diaz’s decision to attempt a Panenka penalty, which was saved.
“It was daring, and I would not have risked that myself,” he said.
Morocco Reports Incident to CAF, FIFA
Following the final, the Moroccan Football Federation formally referred Senegal’s walk-off and supporters’ behaviour to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA.
The incident has added to debate over officiating, discipline and player conduct in the AFCON final.
AFP
