Idrissa Gana Gueye has lifted the lid on Senegal’s AFCON 2026 road, reflecting on the final against Morocco and the relationship between the two nations.
Speaking in an interview with Onze Mondial, the midfielder spoke about both the intensity of the match and the mutual respect between the teams.
Ahead of the final, Gueye said that Senegal’s match with Morocco was about more than just competition. “Even before the final, everyone knew about the good relationship between Moroccans and Senegalese. This bond has existed for years. They are friends, they are brothers.”
Despite the stakes, he explained, Senegal approached the game with focus and emotional control. “We knew the match would be tense, but we were prepared for everything. We were completely focused. Nothing could affect us emotionally or mentally.”
No animosity despite controversy
Despite the tension surrounding the final, Gueye shared that it had not affected his view of Morocco or its people. “No one can force me to hate Morocco.”
He also pointed to his personal relationships within the game, including his friendship with Adam Aznou, as proof that the bond between players goes beyond one match.
In a noble gesture of appeasement, Gueye even suggested he would be willing to return the medals if it could help calm tensions between the two nations.
Gueye also distanced himself from the decision of the Senegalese Football Federation to take the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
For him, what happened on the pitch, the emotions and experiences carried more weight than any legal outcome.
Despite everything, Gueye spoke about Morocco’s quality and the organization of the tournament and acknowledged the host nation’s efforts off the pitch. “Morocco organized a magnificent AFCON, with great stadiums, great pitches, and excellent conditions.”
For Gueye, beyond the controversy, the relationship between Senegal and Morocco is built on respect, shared history, and strong personal ties that go far beyond a single final.
Read also: Senegal’s Idrissa Gueye Says Future AFCON Hosts Should Follow Morocco’s Example