President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye (R) watched Senegal’s game against Morocco
Senegalese President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye showed the world that even heads of state are not immune to the drama of football during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.
On Sunday, January 18, 2026, Faye was spotted among fans and citizens in a packed room as they watched Senegal take on Morocco.
A video released by the President’s office captured every emotion, revealing a side of Faye rarely seen: a natural fan living every second of the match.
From the tense moments when Senegal’s players briefly walked off the pitch in protest, to the nail-biting saves by Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, Faye’s anxiety was palpable.
Senegal players, coach honored with rank of Commander after AFCON glory
He fidgeted, cheered, and held his head in his hands, fully absorbed in the highs and lows of the game.
The tension gave way to unbridled joy when Senegal finally found the net. Faye leapt to his feet, hugging the fans around him, celebrating as though he had scored himself.
His energy was contagious, filling the room with the same excitement and relief felt by every supporter present.
When the final whistle blew, Senegal’s victory was met with jubilation, and the President’s reaction perfectly captured the unifying power of football.
In those moments, protocol and titles were forgotten; it was simply a nation and its leader celebrating together.
Watch the video below:
No presidential composure, just pure nerves😅.
Imagine a football match making a Head of State look like this! This is why we love football. This was the #Senegalese President watching the #AFCON2025 final against Morocco pic.twitter.com/AArRCGzS8g
— Richard Kwizera (@Muzungu4) January 20, 2026
FKA/JE
Meanwhile, watch as Ghanaians celebrate Senegal’s AFCON triumph
