 |
| AFCON Cups Won by Senegal |
Explore all AFCON cups won by Senegal, including historic wins, key finals, and a full timeline of when Senegal claimed the Africa Cup of Nations titles.
For decades, Senegal was one of African football’s most consistent contenders but had long struggled to convert potential into major trophies. That finally changed in recent years, and today AFCON cups won by Senegal is a topic of genuine pride for fans both in West Africa and around the world. In this in-depth article, we’ll answer this question clearly, provide the full historical context, explain what each victory meant, and explore how Senegal’s success reshaped their footballing identity on the continent.
Whether you’re a football fan, a student of the sport, or simply curious, this guide is written to satisfy your informational search intent with accuracy, authority, and engaging detail.
How Many AFCON Cups Has Senegal Won?
Senegal has won the Africa Cup of Nations twice as of early 2026:
- AFCON 2021 – Champions
- AFCON 2025 – Champions (final played in January 2026)
These two titles represent Senegal’s rising status from perennial contenders to a genuine African powerhouse.
A Brief Overview: Senegal’s AFCON Journey
Senegal’s journey in the Africa Cup of Nations has been a mix of promise, near misses, and eventual triumphs. The Teranga Lions (Senegal’s national team) have been part of AFCON since the 1960s, but for many years, they failed to bring home the trophy despite impressive football and talented squads.
Before winning their first title, Senegal had already:
- Reached finals but lost (e.g., 2002, 2019)
- Produced standout players performing in Europe’s top leagues
- Built a strong reputation but lacked the silverware
Let’s look at these AFCON cups — and the journeys behind them — one by one.
AFCON 2021: First Cup Win for Senegal
When and Where
- Tournament: Africa Cup of Nations 2021
- Final Played: 6 February 2022
- Host Country: Cameroon
Path to Glory
Senegal performed consistently throughout the tournament, showcasing defensive stability and tactical discipline. In the final, they faced Egypt, one of the most decorated nations in AFCON history.
The Final
- Match Result: Senegal 0–0 Egypt (after extra time)
- Penalty Shootout: Senegal won 4–2
- Significance: This was Senegal’s first ever AFCON cup victory.
Why it mattered: After decades of coming close (including a final loss in 2002 and another in 2019), Senegal finally claimed the trophy that had eluded them for generations.
The win ignited celebrations across Senegal and beyond, as fans celebrated not just a title but a long-awaited breakthrough moment in the nation’s footballing history.
AFCON 2025: Second Cup Win for Senegal
When and Where
- Tournament: Africa Cup of Nations 2025
- Final Played: 18 January 2026
- Host Country: Morocco
Historic Victory
In a thrilling and sometimes controversial final against host nation Morocco, Senegal once again lifted the AFCON trophy.
- Match Result: Senegal 1–0 Morocco (after extra time)
- Winning Goal: Pape Gueye scored in extra time
- Significance: This was Senegal’s second AFCON cup victory in five years.
What made it special: Winning back-to-back titles (2021 and 2025) placed Senegal among the continent’s elite, proving their first title in 2021 was no fluke. The team’s resilience under pressure and ability to close out finals marked a new era of success for Senegalese football.
Senegal in AFCON History: Two Cups and Counting
Senegal’s AFCON cups won are:
- 2021 – First title
- 2025 (final in 2026) – Second title
Compared to other African nations, Senegal’s two championships might seem modest next to Egypt’s seven titles or Cameroon’s five, but the rapid pace of Senegal’s recent success is remarkable and reflects a rapidly growing football culture and infrastructure.
Here’s how Senegal compares:
| Country | AFCON Titles |
|---|---|
| Egypt | 7 |
| Cameroon | 5 |
| Ghana | 4 |
| Nigeria | 3 |
| Senegal | 2 |
Before the Wins: Near Misses and Final Losses
Senegal’s ascent wasn’t sudden — it was built on years of competitive performances, even when the trophy slipped through their fingers:
2002 AFCON Final
Senegal lost to Cameroon on penalties after a draw. This was their first appearance in a continental final.
2019 AFCON Final
Senegal lost 1–0 to Algeria in the final. The Teranga Lions played exceptionally throughout the tournament but fell just short.
These near successes helped build character, experience, and hunger within the team — all ingredients that eventually fueled their cup victories.
What AFCON Cups Won by Senegal Mean
The significance of Senegal’s AFCON cup wins goes well beyond trophies:
National Pride
Winning Africa’s biggest football tournament brought unmatched joy and unity to Senegal, with citizens celebrating across cities and villages.
Footballing Legacy
After decades of producing talented players without major continental success, Senegal finally entered the history books as champions.
Confidence on the World Stage
These wins boosted Senegal’s confidence in global competitions like the FIFA World Cup, where they have been competitive but have not yet claimed major success.
Additionally, the back-to-back victories (2021 and 2025) establish a culture of excellence and expectation within the national team and among supporters.
Key Players Behind Senegal’s Success
Both AFCON cup wins were driven by a mix of experience and emerging talent:
- Sadio Mané: Leader and inspiration, particularly in 2021.
- Pape Gueye: Scored the winning goal in the 2025 final.
- Édouard Mendy: Goalkeeper heroics in crucial moments.
These players, among others, embodied resilience and teamwork, crucial traits in tournament football.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How many AFCON cups has Senegal won?
A: Senegal has won the Africa Cup of Nations twice — in 2021 and in 2025 (final played in 2026).
Q: Who did Senegal beat in their AFCON finals?
A: In 2021 Senegal beat Egypt on penalties, and in 2025 they beat Morocco 1–0 in extra time.
Q: How significant are these wins?
A: These wins elevated Senegal’s status in African football, marking them as one of the few nations with multiple AFCON titles.
Q: Has Senegal won AFCON consecutively?
A: Not exactly consecutively by calendar year, but Senegal won two titles in three editions (2021 and 2025).
If you love following African football history or want more insights on AFCON legends, records, and player profiles, subscribe to our newsletter for expert updates, analysis, and exclusive interviews!
Conclusion: Senegal’s Legacy Through AFCON Cups
The story of AFCON cups won by Senegal is one of resilience, growth, and eventual triumph. Two titles — in 2021 and 2025 — represent not just victories on the pitch, but a transformation in Senegalese football culture and continental standing.
From heartbreaking final losses to lifting the trophy twice within a five-year span, Senegal’s journey reflects a narrative of persistence and evolution. As the team prepares for future tournaments, fans can look back proudly at the AFCON cups they have won — milestones that redefine what success looks like for a nation united by football and ambition.
