Senegal President Rewards Players And Coaches With Lands, $87,000 And Titles After Winning AFCON 2021

Senegal's President, Macky Sall, has congratulated the country's players and coaches on winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 2021.

On Sunday, February 6, Aliou Cisse's side upset Egypt on penalties to win the African showpiece for the first time, with Sadio Mane hitting the decisive penalty in the thrilling shoot-out.

During a ceremony held at the presidential palace in Dakar on Tuesday night, February 8, Senegal's leader presented each of the players and coaches with a piece of land in Dakar, $87,000 each and bestowed on them Senegal's highest honor, Grand Officers of the National Order of the Lion.

“In addition, as a token of gratitude, and on behalf of the nation, the players and other members of the official delegation will each receive a special bonus of 50 million franc CFA ($87,412) and a 200 square metre plot of land in Dakar,” said Sall as quoted by Metro.

 

The president added that the Lions of Teranga would also receive a 500 square metre plot in a memorial estate in Diamniadio, a new futuristic economic and industrial hub around 45 km from Dakar where a new national stadium will be inaugurated on Feb. 22.

President Sall told players they had reached the "summit of Africa" while praising coach Cisse for his efforts.

“Here you are, on top of Africa. Thanks to your fighting spirit, your talent and your commitment, you have brought back to us the pride and honour that marks great people,” he said.

“Thank you to coach Aliou 'El Tactico'. As I said, he doesn't talk much, he doesn't make noise, but he is efficient, and he brought us the Africa Cup with his valiant team.

“Thank you, from all those who were with you. Through quiet strength and imperturbable serenity, you have shown your qualities as a leader of men."