Kenyans have joined the rest of the continent in congratulating Senegal after the West African nation were crowned AFCON 2025 champions, following a dramatic 1–0 extra-time victory over hosts Morocco.
On social media, Kenyan football fans flooded timelines with messages praising Senegal’s resilience, discipline and composure in one of the most dramatic finals in recent Africa Cup of Nations history.
“Senegal bravo,” wrote Martin Bravo on Facebook, capturing the simple but widespread applause that followed the final whistle.
Others saw the victory as an invitation to celebrate Senegal beyond football.
“Congratulations Senegal. My next vacation is Dakar,” commented Bryan Too, highlighting how sporting success often sparks cultural curiosity and goodwill across borders.
Some Kenyan fans turned their attention to the hosts’ downfall.
“Morocco was overconfident,” said Chege Macoz, echoing a common sentiment among viewers who felt the Atlas Lions failed to capitalise on home advantage, despite dominating large spells of the game.
For many, the focus remained firmly on Senegal’s performance.
“Great performance, congratulations,” posted Jude Njoroge, while Mamake Nariyeo described the triumph as an “awesome job,” praising the team’s fighting spirit.
One of the most striking reactions came from Vincent Ochieng, who termed Senegal’s victory “the best comeback of all time,” accompanying his comment with clapping-hand emojis to symbolise congratulations and respect for the champions’ determination under pressure.
Beyond national borders, some Kenyans framed the result as a continental success.
“Africa is us and our business,” wrote Humble Keed, treating Senegal’s win as a victory for African football as a whole.
The sentiment resonated widely, reflecting a pan-African pride that often defines AFCON moments.
Senegal sealed the title after Pape Gueye’s stunning extra-time goal, which proved decisive in a match filled with tension and controversy.
The final was overshadowed late in regulation time when Senegal players temporarily refused to resume play following the award of a contentious stoppage-time penalty to Morocco with the match still goalless.
The Atlas Lions ultimately failed to convert the penalty, sending the match into extra time.
Gueye’s strike not only silenced the home crowd but underlined Senegal’s ability to stay focused amid chaos.
The victory also marked a significant milestone, as Senegal defeated Morocco at AFCON for the second time, reinforcing their growing dominance in African football.
The triumph makes Senegal two-time AFCON champions, adding to their maiden title in 2021..
As congratulatory messages continue to pour in, one theme stands out clearly: from Nairobi to Dakar, Senegal’s AFCON victory has been embraced not just as a national achievement, but as a proud moment for African football.
by JAMES GICHIGI
