Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has described the decision to strip the Teranga Lions of their Africa Cup of Nations title as “shocking,” insisting that justice must be served as the case heads to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
The controversy stems from a ruling by the Confederation of African Football Appeal Board, which overturned Senegal’s triumph and awarded the title to Morocco, a decision that has sparked widespread debate across the football world.
Reacting to the situation, Mendy did not hide his frustration.
“It’s shocking,” he said, clearly unhappy with the outcome.
The goalkeeper, who was part of the Senegal squad, argued that the basis for the decision does not reflect what actually happened on the pitch.
According to him, claims that Senegal abandoned the match are inaccurate.
“We did not leave the pitch,” he stressed.
Mendy pointed to the referee’s report as key evidence, explaining that the game was only temporarily halted and not officially abandoned — a distinction he believes could be crucial in the CAS ruling.
“It was just a stoppage,” he implied.
For the Chelsea and Al-Ahli shot-stopper, this detail strengthens Senegal’s case as they seek to have the decision overturned.
“We hope to get our trophy back,” he added.
The case has now moved beyond CAF’s internal structures, with CAS set to deliver a final verdict — one that could have major implications for African football governance.
As the legal battle continues, the spotlight remains firmly on the integrity of decisions taken off the pitch.
For Mendy and his teammates, however, the focus is simple.
They believe they won it fairly.
And now, they want it back.
Because in football, titles are earned on the pitch.
And as Mendy insists, that should never be forgotten.
