Senegalese president rewards winners with money and plots of land

Senegal President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has promised large financial rewards and land grants to every member of the country. African Cup of Nations-winning team after its spectacular triumph on Sunday.

Senegal obtained its second CAN title with a 1-0 victory in overtime against Morocco in Rabat, in a final marked by controversy and long stoppages.

Ismaila Sarr had a late goal disallowed before Morocco were awarded a contested penalty, an incident which saw several Senegalese players initially heading towards the tunnel before being called back onto the field by captain Sadio Mane.

After almost 20 minutes late, Brahim Diaz attempted a penalty from Panenka which was stopped by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. That moment was followed by further confusion, with reserve goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf helping to keep Mendy's towel despite interference from Moroccan ball boys.

The team was welcomed home by an open-top bus parade through Dakar, watched by thousands of supporters, before attending a ceremony at the presidential palace on Tuesday.

Speaking to the team, President Faye confirmed that each of the 28 players would receive 75 million CFA francs, the equivalent of approximately $134,900, as well as a 1,500 square meter coastal plot of land. The total amount of the cash payment amounts to 2.1 billion CFA francs, or approximately $3.7 million.

Members of the Senegalese football federation will receive 50 million CFA francs, or approximately $89,600, and 1,000 square meters of land, while other members of the Senegalese delegation will receive 20 million CFA francs and 500 square meters of land.

Speaking at the ceremony, Faye congratulated the players on their achievement. “Dear Lions, you have honored the flag entrusted to you. You have honored Senegal,” he declared. “You have shown by example that when the Senegalese move forward together with discipline and confidence, no challenge is beyond their reach. »