Monaco boss backs Diatta, Camara after AFCON verdict

AS Monaco head coach Sébastien Pocognoli has given his opinion on the CAF’s verdict regarding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.

The Belgian tactician offered his support to Monaco’s Senegalese players Krépin Diatta and Lamine Camara, who were key members of the Teranga Lions in their journey to the 2025 AFCON final victory over hosts Morocco in January.

In a pre-match press conference before the trip to face Olympique Lyonnais this Sunday afternoon (2:00 PM GMT) in Ligue 1, the 38-year-old added his voice to what has become a global debate.

“For me, they remain my champions. I think Krépin and Lamine share the same view. For them, they are champions. Anything outside of this context is beyond our control. But it hasn’t affected them too much.

Regardless of the outcome, we will always have to discuss the whys and wherefores. They had to play those matches, they had to win them. We are very proud of what they have achieved. The final outcome of this trophy haul doesn’t matter.

In the end, it’s the sporting feeling that prevails. As long as they remain focused on AS Monaco in all of this, that’s the most important thing.”

🗣💬 Sébastien Pocognoli explique comment les Sénégalais Krépin Diatta et Lamine Camara ont vécu la réattribution du titre de la CAN 2025 : “Pour moi, ça reste mes champions dans mon coeur.” pic.twitter.com/z4GW1xMKrx

— RMC Sport (@RMCsport) March 21, 2026

Diatta, 27, has made 18 appearances in all competitions and 22-year-old Lamine Camara has 24 appearances in all competitions this season.

The Confederation of African Football’s Appeal Board adjudicated in favour of Morocco regarding the finals of the AFCON tournament where some Senegal players walked off the pitch in protest of a penalty awarded to Morocco.

The Atlas Lions were awarded 3-0 victory after articles 82 and 84 were exercised in the ruling, stirring global outrage.

The Senegalese Football Federation has however moved to contest the case at the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS).