Pape Gueye discusses career impact of CAN 2025 final goal and Kylian Mbappé's remarks
via SeneNews1 min read
Pape Gueye, the sole scorer in the CAN 2025 final against Morocco, believes his career has significantly advanced since Senegal's victory. In an interview with L'Équipe, the Villarreal CF midfielder stated that his performance in CAN 2025 altered how European opponents perceive him. He noticed this change immediately after the tournament, particularly in a match against Real Madrid. Gueye recounted a notable exchange with Kylian Mbappé before that game, where Mbappé playfully warned him not to repeat his final-winning goal against Morocco. Gueye views this comment as evidence of the final's impact on his reputation, indicating that opponents now closely monitor his performance and anticipate his long-range shots. The CAN 2025 final, where Senegal defeated Morocco, marked a turning point, enhancing his visibility and solidifying his role in the national team. He believes his status in professional football has evolved, with opponents approaching his matches with increased attention due to his ability to make a difference in crucial moments. This rise in prominence extends beyond the field, as several top European clubs, including Manchester United, are reportedly monitoring his progress after his successful CAN.
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Must ReadMody Niang, a respected intellectual and former chairman of the board of the daily Le Soleil, has publicly supported Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko's statements regarding controversial financial flows to the religious city of Touba. Niang, known for his criticism of past administrations, asserts that the current denunciations are part of a historical pattern of public fund misappropriation and poor governance. He states that "stolen money has always been paid to Touba," citing the eras of former Presidents Abdoulaye Wade and Macky Sall, and suggesting the practice likely continues today. Niang highlights specific instances, such as 200 million intended for the late Serigne Cheikh Saliou, which were reportedly returned by him to Me Madické Niang. He claims these practices have led to the construction of opulent villas in Touba, owned by well-known individuals like Pape Diop and Samuel Sarr, funded through political funds and public embezzlement. Niang anticipates further reactions to Sonko's declarations, ironically inviting those who might sue Sonko to sue him instead, given his agreement with the Prime Minister's assertions.
Manchester City has reportedly entered the competition to sign 18-year-old Senegalese forward Ibrahim Mbaye, who is currently under contract with Paris Saint-Germain until 2028. According to Foot Mercato, several other major European clubs are also monitoring Mbaye, including Aston Villa, Tottenham, Borussia Dortmund, and RB Leipzig. Mbaye, a product of PSG's academy, has attracted significant interest due to his performances and talent, despite no agreement being reached with any club yet. PSG is reportedly not looking to easily part with the young African champion.
Senegal enters the 2026 World Cup in North America with a strong qualification record: 7 wins, 3 draws, and 0 losses in 10 CAF qualifying matches, accumulating 24 points in Group B. Their qualification was sealed on October 14, 2025, with a 4-0 victory over Mauritania, featuring a brace from Sadio Mané, and goals from Iliman Ndiaye and Habib Diallo. Coach Pape Thiaw leads a cohesive team, not one in rebuilding, capable of managing long series and tight matches. The team's strength lies in its talent, which needs to be strategically deployed against three distinct opponents. Senegal's Group I schedule begins with France on June 16 in New Jersey, followed by Norway on June 22 at the New York/New Jersey Stadium, and Iraq on June 26 in Toronto. The expanded 48-team format means the top two teams from each group advance, along with the eight best third-placed teams, making every point crucial. A draw against France would be a valuable asset before facing Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard. Senegal doesn't need three perfect matches, but rather one very clean match, one win, and a protected goal difference. The team's core remains strong, with Édouard Mendy in goal, Kalidou Koulibaly leading the defense, Idrissa Gana Gueye controlling the midfield, and Pape Matar Sarr, Lamine Camara, and Habib Diarra providing central dynamism. Upfront, Mané, Ismaïla Sarr, Iliman Ndiaye, and Nicolas Jackson offer diverse attacking profiles. The team performs best when the midfield resists pressing,