Senegal president offers land and large bonuses to AFCON champions

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has rewarded Senegal’s victorious Africa Cup of Nations squad with major financial bonuses and coastal land plots, celebrating their dramatic 1-0 final victory over Morocco.

Speaking to thousands of supporters at a ceremony in Dakar on Tuesday, President Faye announced that each of the 28 squad members will receive 75 million CFA francs (approximately $134,892) and a 1,500 square-meter plot of coastal land. This reward package, totalling over $3.7 million for the players alone, significantly surpasses the bonuses awarded after Senegal's first AFCON win in 2021.

"This is the reward for an entire people, grateful for what you have accomplished," President Faye told the team. "Dear Lions, you have honoured the flag entrusted to you... You have shown by example that when Senegalese people move forward together with discipline and confidence, no challenge is beyond their reach."

The team, led by captain Sadio Mané and coach Pape Thiaw, had paraded through Dakar atop an open bus earlier in the day, greeted by massive crowds celebrating the nation's second continental title.

The final itself was historic and contentious, featuring a temporary walk-off by the Senegalese team to protest a late penalty decision. After returning to the pitch, goalkeeper Édouard Mendy saved the resulting spot-kick, and Pape Gueye scored the winning goal in extra time.

The presidential pledges extend beyond the players. Members of Senegal's football federation will receive 50 million CFA francs and 1,000 square-meter plots, while delegation members will get 20 million francs and 500 square-meter plots. Sports ministry staff will also share a 305 million franc bonus.

These rewards come at a time when Senegal faces significant economic challenges, with public debt reportedly reaching 132% of GDP. However, for the nation, the celebration represents a moment of unity and immense pride following a hard-fought tournament victory.

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