AFCON: “Senegalese deserved a second trophy” – Pape Matar Sarr

Senegal midfielder Pape Matar Sarr says the citizens deserved another Africa Cup of Nations trophy due to their unflinching support for the senior team.

The Teranga Lions lifted their second continental title after seeing off hosts Morocco 1-0 in the finals at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on January 18 in a game that was marred by a 17-minutes hold-up due to a penalty award to Morocco.

The Atlas Lions’ dream of ending a 50-year trophy drought was shattered when Real Madrid forward, Brahim Diaz squandered a VAR award penalty late in the game.

However Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye smashed home a late winner to send the entire West African nation into raptures at the end of extra time.

Matar Sarr, who plies his trade in the English Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur, played just a game at the AFCON but he could not hide his joy over the glorious moment.

“It just amazing, you know because the people like.., they are always behind us and they deserve this second medal for them and for us,” Pape Matar Sarr told Tottenham Hotspur media outlet.

On his return to club football for the remainder of the English Premier League season, the lanky midfielder expressed readiness to give his best.

“Everybody is happy and we are all happy. I am happy to be back and I am happy to see my teammates and really ready to go forward for the rest of the season.”

Senegal defeated Egypt 4-2 on penalty shootouts to win their first ever Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

Sarr, who joined Tottenham Hotspur in 2021 from Ligue 1 club Metz has played 14 games with two goals and two assists for Spurs in the 22-week old premier league.

Spurs’ next game is away to Burnley as they seek to push out of the 14th spot with 27 points.

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