Gana Gueye praises Senegal squad after toppling hosts Morocco

Senegal edged hosts Morocco 1-0 after extra time in a fiercely contested final, a match marked by high emotion and controversy both on and off the pitch.

Speaking after the trophy presentation, and Senegal’s second AFCON title, the Everton midfielder admitted he was overwhelmed by the magnitude of the moment.

"I cannot explain it because at the moment, I just feel very proud and happy for what we did on the pitch, because we fought right until the end for our country and the badge. We deserve it and our country deserves it."

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The 36-year-old added that Senegal’s intention was never to arrive at the AFCON simply to make up the numbers given their pedigree.

Gueye talked up the squad after players stepped up when coach Pape Thiaw was forced to rotate due to suspensions, illness and injuries.

"We said it before the tournament, we would need everybody and not just eleven players. The group showed their ability to step up every time. When the youngsters came on the pitch, they showed they have the character to defend our colours."